Everwild: Microsoft presents the next Rare gem at X019
Of course, Microsoft didn't miss the opportunity to put its internal studios in the spotlight at X019. Rare was also on hand for this reason: the British studio used the London trade fair to give the world a first impression of Everwild!
Innovation in the wilderness?
Vast meadows, dense forests and majestic mountain landscapes inhabited by a variety of imaginative animals: the Everwild debut trailer invites you into a colourful game world that is presumably being created with the next generation of consoles in mind.
However, concrete details about Rare's first new IP since Sea of Thieves (released in 2016) are still few and far between - much suggests an action-adventure in an open environment, in which online interaction between players could play a special role.
Rare boss reveals more details
In an accompanying press release, Craig Duncan (Rare studio head) reveals only that it will be an "experience that allows new gameplay possibilities in a natural and magical world". Louise O'Connor leads the development team as Executive Producer and is responsible for ensuring that a "truly original and incredibly special" game is created. Duncan also suggests that players will be able to "share memorable, engaging and meaningful experiences" with each other.
Release Christmas 2020
Everwild is currently in a relatively early stage of development. Accordingly, Rare or Microsoft have not provided any indications of a possible release date or even a rough timeframe. However, since the successor model of the Xbox One has already been announced for the Christmas business of 2020, one can assume a next-gen title as indicated.
Sea of Thieves continues to receive updates and expansions
While the information about Everwild is ultimately relatively manageable, the art style of the game and the mere fact that Rare is apparently using its legendary reputation to good effect have caused a mostly positive first echo.
At the same time, fans of Sea of Thieves need not worry that their favourite will be crossing the proverbial plank anytime soon: despite the double burden, Rare wants
