Everwild has been a game that fans have been eagerly awaiting for quite some time. It was first unveiled in 2019, with developers Rare behind the project, but has reportedly been in development since 2014. Of course, it had been mainly missing in action for a good while, with some fans hopeful it would reappear during this year’s Xbox summer showcase event. That didn’t happen, and it appears that the latest news about the IP suggests it’s now dead.
This is unfortunate, as we’ve only just seen Rare focus on Sea of Thieves over the past several years. However, a new report suggests that we may not see this game released. If you haven’t heard, rumors have suggested that Microsoft is preparing to announce another round of mass layoffs within the company. Likewise, these layoffs would expand to the Xbox gaming division.
Earlier today, we reported that ZeniMax Media and King were the two companies so far that would be hit with layoffs. Now, thanks to VGC, it’s reported that Rare is also dealing with layoffs. Their sources claim that Rare employees are likely to lose their jobs as part of the new layoff plans at Xbox, and as a result, the new IP being worked on has been scrapped.
Again, this is just a report based on current sources. We have yet to see official word come out that Rare is among the studios that will be hit with layoffs. Of course, it might not be long before official news hits the web over the next few days on which studios are undergoing Microsoft’s restructuring plans.
Meanwhile, as previously reported, those who have been laid off are encouraged to explore the current openings at Microsoft. Any applications sent in will be given priority review. As for the future of Rare, it remains to be seen just how many employees might be exiting the studio and what their focus will be now that Everwild is off the table.
