Known for crafting the iconic soundtracks of classic games like Banjo-Kazooie and the Donkey Kong Rap, Grant Kirkhope recently noted that the odds of a Banjo-Threeie sequel have slightly improved, as both Rare and Xbox undergo internal changes.
Banjo-Kazooie composer observes increased optimism for comeback
Speaking with FRVR, Kirkhope—whose memorable melodies defined the atmosphere of Banjo-Kazooie’s Nintendo 64 era—reflected on the possible return of the series. It’s been nearly thirty years since the last installment in the mainline platformer series, and approaching 20 years since Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts debuted on Xbox 360, fueling ongoing fan speculation about when the beloved duo might return.
Originally, Kirkhope felt that a new entry in the Banjo-Kazooie franchise had “zero chance” of happening. However, due to recent shifts in Rare’s management, he now sees at least a “slight chance” that another game could emerge. He characterized Rare as having typically dismissed new Banjo-related pitches—whether spin-offs or creative reinterpretations—remarking that Rare used to “just typically say[ing] no to everything.”
Rare’s management shake-up spurs renewed possibility
Kirkhope pointed to the exit of Craig Duncan, previously the studio head of Rare, as a potential catalyst for increased flexibility concerning Banjo-Kazooie’s fate. According to Kirkhope, Rare is currently “a little bit different” and might be “a bit more open to discussion,” indicating a possible shift in studio culture that aligns with Duncan’s departure from Xbox Game Studios.
Despite this, all efforts to relaunch the series have yet to succeed. Kirkhope revealed that “like three companies” had officially proposed making a new Banjo-Kazooie title to Microsoft or Rare, but, as he noted, “I don’t think anyone was successful.”
Interest from external studios and Microsoft’s shifting focus
Kirkhope also believes it’s unlikely Rare could take on development themselves due to their full schedule. Yet with Xbox now demonstrating greater flexibility—and Microsoft increasingly supporting established properties, as highlighted in several recent news stories—there may be a chance for an outside developer to continue the Banjo saga. “Perhaps there’s a hope,” Kirkhope remarked to FRVR, expressing eagerness to be involved by saying, “Sign me up.”
Interest in working with Rare’s iconic series has already been shown by at least one external developer: Toys for Bob, creators of Spyro: A Realm Beyond. In a discussion with Canadian Guy Eh over a year ago, co-studio lead Paul Yan suggested that Toys for Bob could “have a lot of fun” breathing new life into Banjo-Kazooie, based on their prior work with Crash Bandicoot and Spyro revivals.
There are currently no confirmed plans for another title, but the recent changes at Rare and continuing enthusiasm from experienced studios are giving fans renewed optimism that Banjo and Kazooie could embark on future adventures.