One of Rare's most experienced game developers is reportedly departing the company after the abrupt cancellation of Everwild, his latest project in development. Gregg Mayles dedicated over 35 years to Rare, with Everwild poised to become his 30th credited collaboration with the studio.

Initially announced in 2014, Everwild underwent a complete development reboot in 2021, with Mayles taking the helm as creative director. However, recent reports confirm Microsoft axed the project on July 2 as part of a major corporate restructuring that also affected other studios, including the closure of Perfect Dark reboot developer The Initiative.

Multiple anonymous sources from within Rare, speaking to Video Games Chronicle, indicate Mayles' departure coincides with significant layoffs across Microsoft's gaming divisions. While unclear whether his exit is voluntary, these cuts may eliminate up to 9,000 positions - approximately 4% of Microsoft's workforce. Mayles has yet to publicly address these developments.

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Mayles leaves an indelible mark on Rare's history, having contributed to numerous iconic titles. After joining in 1989, his first notable credit came with 1990's notoriously difficult Battletoads. He later directed beloved platformers Banjo-Kazooie (1998) and its 2008 sequel, before steering the successful live-service adventure Sea of Thieves (2018). Reports also indicate veteran designer Louise O'Connor (20-year Rare employee) is departing.