Everwild Update: Xbox Boss Phil Spencer Speaks

What happened to Rare's Everwild? Announced over five years ago at Microsoft's X019 presentation, its absence from subsequent Xbox showcases and swirling reboot rumors have fueled speculation about its fate. However, Xbox boss Phil Spencer assures us the project is alive and well.

In an interview with XboxEra, Spencer cited Everwild among upcoming games he's enthusiastic about, recently visiting Rare's UK studio (home of Sea of Thieves) to assess its progress. He highlighted the time afforded to developers of Everwild, State of Decay, and the next Double Fine project, despite Microsoft's busy release schedule, fueled by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. Spencer emphasized the company's ability to provide these teams with the necessary development time.

Everwild's journey has faced challenges. Following a denied reboot rumor and the 2020 departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe, veteran designer Gregg Mayles (known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Piñata, and Sea of Thieves) stepped in.

Early reports described Everwild as a third-person adventure game incorporating god game elements, though its extended development suggests potential shifts in direction. The July 2020 trailer simply described it as "a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience awaits in a natural and magical world."

With Microsoft juggling a vast portfolio of in-development titles—including Perfect Dark, the next Halo, Playground's Fable, Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls VI, Activision's annual Call of Duty, and id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages (May release)—Everwild's release date remains uncertain, but its continued development is confirmed.