Rare's Everwild has been a topic of curiosity and speculation since its announcement at Microsoft's X019 event over five years ago. Despite its absence from recent Xbox showcases and rumors of reboots, Xbox head Phil Spencer has confirmed that the project is still very much alive and progressing.
In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his excitement for Everwild, mentioning a visit to Rare's UK studio where he saw the game's development firsthand. He highlighted Everwild alongside other anticipated titles like State of Decay and the next game from Double Fine, emphasizing Microsoft's commitment to giving their development teams ample time to perfect their projects. This approach is supported by Microsoft's robust release schedule, enhanced by the acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.
Everwild has faced its share of challenges, including the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. However, Rare has since appointed veteran designer Gregg Mayles, known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Piñata, and Sea of Thieves, to lead the project.
While details about Everwild remain scarce, it was initially described as a third-person adventure game with elements of a god game. The last trailer, released in July 2020, promised "a unique and unforgettable experience" in a "natural and magical world." Given the extended development period, the final product may differ from these early descriptions.
Microsoft's portfolio of upcoming games is extensive, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, and Playground's new Fable game. Additionally, Bethesda is developing The Elder Scrolls 6, and Activision is working on the latest Call of Duty. In the near future, id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages is set to launch in May, showcasing Microsoft's busy lineup of releases.
For fans eagerly awaiting Everwild, Spencer's comments offer reassurance that the game is still in the works, with Rare's talented team continuing to refine and develop this mysterious and much-anticipated title.
