Microsoft’s recent layoffs have led to the cancellation of Rare’s highly anticipated project, Everwild, according to multiple reports from Bloomberg, VGC, and other outlets. 
The game, which had been in development for almost a decade, was first announced in 2019, but its fate now seems sealed as part of Microsoft’s restructuring.
Although the news of Everwild’s cancellation is shocking, it isn’t entirely unexpected. The game’s development journey had already been marred by uncertainty. Despite the beautiful visuals showcased in the 2019 reveal, there was little clarity on the type of game Everwild was set to become. Rare, known for its iconic titles, seemed unsure about the direction, leading some insiders to describe it as a “real mess.”
Rare’s legacy in the gaming world makes this cancellation all the more painful for fans. The studio has long been known for its groundbreaking work on franchises like Banjo-Kazooie and Conker’s Bad Fur Day, and players had high expectations for what Everwild could become, even though its genre and mechanics remained a mystery. Now, with the game officially canceled, the hopes of seeing the next big Rare title have been dashed.
The cancellation of Everwild is particularly unfortunate given that just months ago, Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft’s gaming division, had expressed confidence in the game’s progress. However, as reports of the layoffs continue to surface, the impact on Rare’s workforce is undeniable, with many talented developers facing job uncertainty. The total number of affected employees remains unclear, but Microsoft is reportedly laying off 9,000 staff across its various divisions.