Xbox: A Historic Shift for This Highly Regarded Studio

Gregg Mayles Departure Signals New Era for Rare Amid Xbox Studio Restructuring; Everwild’s Cancellation Marks Loss of Visionary Project

A significant shift is occurring within Xbox’s gaming division, impacting fans of titles like Banjo-Kazooie and Sea of Thieves. Gregg Mayles, a key figure at Rare for over 35 years, has officially departed the studio. His exit coincides with Microsoft’s recent cancellation of several internal projects, notably Everwild, a highly anticipated and mysterious title that Mayles was also involved with. Gregg Mayles, regarded as a pillar of Rare, joined the studio in the late 1980s and contributed to iconic titles such as Battletoads, Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, and Viva Piñata. More recently, he led the development of Sea of Thieves, a long-term success, and was featured in a Gameblog interview during a preview of the pirate game. His departure marks a new chapter for Rare and aligns with Xbox’s broader studio restructuring. Everwild, a project announced with significant fanfare for Xbox, possessed a strong artistic vision and an enigmatic atmosphere. However, after years of silence and internal overhauls, the project was ultimately canceled. Alongside Mayles, executive producer Louise O’Connor has also departed, a dual exit that poses a significant challenge for the studio.

Xbox Restructuring Wave Affects Multiple Studios, Impacting Original Projects

The current restructuring extends beyond Rare, impacting several other Xbox game studios. Multiple teams within Xbox are facing layoffs. The Initiative, which was working on a reboot of Perfect Dark, has been shut down completely. Similarly, ZeniMax Online Studios canceled an MMORPG that was in development, and Matt Firor, the studio’s president, also announced his departure. The atmosphere within Xbox is reportedly challenging. Matt Booty, Vice President of Xbox Game Studios, has addressed his teams, explaining that the overall strategy remains consistent: to create inspiring games, strengthen flagship franchises, and build new worlds. However, decisions on the ground often show that original projects are the first to be impacted.

In Case You Missed It

For those eager to dive deeper into the world of Ghost of Tsushima and explore its next chapter, make sure to check out “Ghost of Tsushima Sequel’s Gameplay Unveiled: Players Can Return to Atsu’s Past and Control Her” by Ahmed Hassan, published on July 11, 2025. This insightful post delves into the latest gameplay mechanics, offering a glimpse into how players will step into the shoes of Atsu, an Onryō seeking vengeance against her family’s murderers. With unique features like memory mode and immersive Japanese aesthetics, this sequel promises to be both captivating and innovative. Dive in at Ghost of Tsushima Sequel’s Gameplay Unveiled: Players Can Return to Atsu’s Past and Control Her to learn more! If you’re a fan of Sea of Thieves and eager to know what’s on the horizon for this beloved pirate game, be sure to check out “Sea of Thieves to Undergo Changes in 2026” by Ahmed Hassan, published on July 12, 2025. The article dives into Rare’s first community live stream where they unveiled exciting updates and changes planned for the early part of next year, including customizable servers and a subscription-based model. Plus, there’s plenty more to look forward to with the introduction of new factions and enemy groups in upcoming seasons. Head over to Sea of Thieves to Undergo Changes in 2026 to learn all the details! For all you Pokemon Scarlet and Violet enthusiasts out there, Bruno Pferd has the scoop on a must-see event running through July 20th (and repeating in another week)! Dive into the exciting opportunity to capture the rare Tera-type Crystal Battle Ekans, known as Ekayer, during exclusive 7-star raids. Don’t miss this chance to expand your roster with one of the game’s mightiest creatures. Head over to Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: Capture a Rare and Mighty Pokemon for all the details!