Rare's Everwild Update: Phil Spencer Weighs In

Rare's Everwild: Still in Development, According to Xbox Boss

Over five years after its initial announcement at Microsoft's X019 event, the status of Rare's Everwild remains a topic of discussion. Absence from subsequent Xbox showcases and whispers of a reboot fueled speculation about its cancellation. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer has confirmed the game is still actively in development.

In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his excitement for Everwild, revealing a recent visit to Rare's UK studio to assess the game's progress. He cited Everwild alongside other anticipated titles, emphasizing the time afforded to developers despite Microsoft's busy release schedule, significantly boosted by the acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. Spencer highlighted Microsoft's ability to provide development teams with the necessary time, referencing his upcoming visit to Coalition, the studio behind Gears of War.

Everwild's development has faced challenges, including a denied reboot rumor and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. Veteran designer Gregg Mayles (known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Pinata, and Sea of Thieves) has since taken the helm.

While early reports described Everwild as a third-person adventure game incorporating god game elements, its prolonged development suggests potential shifts in its design. The last trailer, released in July 2020, simply described it as "a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience await in a natural and magical world."

Everwild joins a substantial lineup of games currently under development at Microsoft, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, Playground Games' new Fable title, Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls 6, and Activision's annual Call of Duty release. Further adding context, id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages is slated for a May launch.