Rare Studio Hit by Layoffs and Everwild Cancellation as Veteran Leaders Depart

Rare, the acclaimed British game development studio, has been rocked by significant layoffs following the cancellation of its highly anticipated original title, Everwild. Multiple sources confirm that the studio, best known for classics such as Banjo-Kazooie and Sea of Thieves, is undergoing major changes as it shutters development on the long-in-the-works project.

The shakeup comes with the departure of Gregg Mayles, Rare’s most senior and influential game designer. Mayles, who joined Rare in 1990, has been instrumental in shaping the studio’s legacy, contributing to iconic franchises including Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, and more recently, Sea of Thieves. His exit marks the end of an era for Rare, where he served as a creative force for 35 years.

Executive producer Louise O’Connor is also leaving the company. O’Connor, who played a key role in the development of Everwild and other projects, has been a prominent figure at Rare and her departure adds to the uncertainty surrounding the studio’s future direction.

Everwild was first announced several years ago with much fanfare, promising a lush, mysterious world and a new vision for cooperative gameplay. However, the project reportedly faced repeated delays and shifting creative direction, ultimately leading to its cancellation. The decision has resulted in job losses at the studio, though the exact number of affected employees has not been disclosed.

Rare, a subsidiary of Microsoft, has been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for decades, renowned for its innovation and beloved franchises. The cancellation of Everwild and the loss of key leadership figures represent a significant turning point for the company as it reassesses its future projects and strategy.

Microsoft and Rare have yet to issue official statements regarding the layoffs or the future of the studio’s remaining projects. The industry will be watching closely to see how Rare recovers from this major setback and what its next steps will be.