Grant Kirkhope, renowned for his work on the Donkey Kong Rap and Banjo-Kazooie games, has expressed increased optimism about the possibility of a new Banjo-Threeie instalment. Kirkhope, who previously saw “zero chance” for another game in the franchise, now suggests there is a “slight chance,” particularly with potential changes in Rare’s leadership possibly favouring an external development approach.
The last mainline platformer in the Banjo-Kazooie series was released nearly 30 years ago on the N64, and it’s been almost 20 years since Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts appeared on the Xbox 360. Despite the lengthy hiatus, fans still hope for a return of the bear and bird duo.
Kirkhope explained that Rare, the studio behind the original games, has historically declined numerous pitches for new Banjo-Kazooie projects. However, with former studio head Craig Duncan leaving his position at Xbox Game Studios, Kirkhope believes Rare might now be “a bit more open to discussion” about new projects.
Although there have been attempts by external developers to pitch a new Banjo-Kazooie game to Microsoft or Rare, Kirkhope stated that he is aware of at least three such proposals. Unfortunately, none have succeeded in moving forward. Kirkhope acknowledges that Rare is currently too occupied to develop a new platformer in-house. Still, he suggests that given Xbox’s current focus on established franchises, there might now be a willingness to discuss new Banjo-Kazooie prospects.
If a new Banjo-Threeie were to be developed, Kirkhope is enthusiastic about participating in the project, expressing his eagerness with a “Sign me up” statement.
One potential external developer interested in reviving the series is Toys for Bob, known for Spyro A Realm Beyond. Co-studio head Paul Yan noted over a year ago that the team could “have a lot of fun” with a Banjo revamp, similar to their work on Crash Bandicoot and the Spyro series.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.