Everwild, announced by Rare during Microsoft's X019 event over five years ago, has been the subject of much speculation due to its absence from recent Xbox showcases and rumors of a reboot. Despite these concerns, Xbox boss Phil Spencer has reassured fans that the project is still very much alive. In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his excitement for Everwild and mentioned a visit to Rare's UK studio, where he saw the progress being made on the game firsthand.
Spencer highlighted other upcoming titles as well, including State of Decay and the next game from Double Fine, led by Tim Schafer. He emphasized Microsoft's commitment to giving developers the time they need to perfect their projects, even with a busy release schedule bolstered by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. Spencer's upcoming visit to The Coalition in Vancouver further underscores Microsoft's hands-on approach with its studios.
Everwild has faced its share of challenges, including a rumored reboot that Microsoft denied and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. The role was subsequently filled by veteran designer Gregg Mayles, known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Piñata, and Sea of Thieves. This change in leadership has sparked interest in how the project will evolve.
As for what Everwild entails, it was initially described as a third-person adventure game with god game elements. However, given the extended development period, the final product may differ from early descriptions. The last trailer for Everwild, released in July 2020, promised "a unique and unforgettable experience" set in a "natural and magical world."
Microsoft's portfolio of in-development 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 preparing 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.
