Everwild, announced by Rare during Microsoft's X019 event over five years ago, has remained a topic of interest and speculation due to its absence from subsequent Xbox showcases and rumors of a reboot. However, Xbox boss Phil Spencer has reassured fans that the project is still very much alive and progressing.
In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his enthusiasm for Everwild, mentioning a visit to Rare's UK studio where he had the opportunity to see 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 these teams the time they need to perfect their projects. This approach is supported by Microsoft's robust lineup of releases, further strengthened by the acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.
Despite concerns over the years, including a rumored reboot that Microsoft denied and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020, Everwild continues to move forward under the guidance of veteran designer Gregg Mayles. Mayles, known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Piñata, and Sea of Thieves, took over as director following Woodroffe's exit.
Originally described as a third-person adventure game with elements of a god game, the nature of Everwild may have evolved during its extended development period. The last trailer, released in July 2020, promised "a unique and unforgettable experience" in a "natural and magical world."
Microsoft's portfolio of upcoming games is extensive, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, and Playground's new Fable game. Bethesda is also working on The Elder Scrolls 6, while Activision is gearing up for this year's Call of Duty. In the near future, fans can look forward to id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages, set to launch in May.
Everwild's journey reflects Microsoft's strategy of nurturing ambitious projects, ensuring that even with a packed release schedule, developers have the space to create truly innovative and memorable gaming experiences.
