A rumor began circulating recently about Microsoft expressing interest in Playtonic Games. The studio is mostly composed of former members of Rare and has released two games in the Yooka-Laylee series (including the recent Yooka-Laylee and The Impossible Lair). Apparently, Microsoft was looking to acquire the studio to create a new Banjo-Kazooie title.
Playtonic Games has issued a statement on Twitter, denying that it’s working on a new Banjo-Kazooie. It also noted that it was staying independent. Though the developer would “love to work with the bear and bird again”, it unfortunately stated “that ball isn’t in our court.”
It’s a shame, for sure, but Playtonic has plenty going of its own work going on. Besides, if Microsoft is serious about reviving the Banjo-Kazooie franchise, why wouldn’t it utilize its own resources like Rare? That’s not accounting for studios like Double Fine Productions which are currently under the Xbox banner and could create an entirely new property that’s exclusive.
For now, we’re just going to have to be content that Banjo-Kazooie are playable in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.