Rare’s Everwild Game Reportedly Cancelled Amid Microsoft’s Gaming Layoffs

Mass Layoffs Impact Microsoft’s Everwild Development at Rare

Recent reports reveal that Microsoft’s ongoing mass layoffs are affecting game development, with the first project casualty being Rare’s highly anticipated title, Everwild. Sources from Bloomberg and Video Games Chronicle indicate that Everwild’s development has officially been cancelled amidst these workforce reductions. Originally unveiled in 2019, Everwild had been in development for nearly a decade, and just months ago, Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s head of gaming, mentioned that the project was “making good progress.”Unfortunately, this progress will remain unseen, casting a shadow over what could have been a groundbreaking title.

The cancellation is disheartening, particularly given the tumultuous development journey Everwild faced. Initially, the game was described as a “real mess, ”with Rare struggling to define its core gameplay concept. Although the visuals showcased in trailers intrigued audiences, significant questions remained about the game’s true direction and mechanics. This ongoing uncertainty ultimately cast doubt on Everwild’s viability within Microsoft’s gaming portfolio.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWpcUH-tKEU

EVERWILD – X019 – Announce Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWpcUH-tKEU)

Despite these setbacks, Rare continues to be one of the most esteemed studios in the gaming industry, renowned for delivering high-quality gaming experiences. The expectation was that Everwild would uphold this legacy; thus, its cancellation compounds the disappointment felt by fans. Furthermore, this situation signifies a loss of talent, as Rare will be parting ways with some of its skilled employees due to the layoffs. While the exact number of affected staff remains unknown, reports indicate that Microsoft is laying off approximately 9, 000 employees company-wide.

As the gaming community processes this news, it raises questions about the future of Rare and potential upcoming projects. The industry’s landscape is continually evolving, and the ramifications of these layoffs will likely echo for some time.

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