Since going independent of Activision, Microsoft and Xbox, studio Toys for Bob says they’d love to work on a ‘Banjo-Kazooie’ in a new interview

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Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision-Blizzard has had its fair share of highs and lows. For one, Call of Duty is now part of Xbox Game Pass. Moreover, World of Warcraft seems to be regaining popularity due to increased creative liberty. It’s also been hinted that some well-loved, long-dormant Activision-Blizzard properties might make a comeback, but further details on that are forthcoming.

As a researcher delving into this topic, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that have surfaced along the way. Despite the excitement surrounding Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision-Blizzard, there have been setbacks such as the closure of studios like Tango Gameworks and layoffs affecting many team members. Furthermore, in an attempt to manage the substantial financial burden associated with this acquisition, Microsoft seems to have shifted its focus away from Xbox exclusive games.

As a researcher looking into the gaming industry, one heartening tale I came across was that of Toys for Bob, a venerable studio with a rich history spanning decades. Renowned for creating games like Spyro the Dragon, Skylanders, and the recent remakes and sequels of Crash Bandicoot under Activision, their story is one of enduring success.

Lately, Toys for Bob has been focusing on helping with the yearly releases of Call of Duty, which left some of their own projects less developed. Since they’ve been working remotely for a while, and after Microsoft bought Activision, Toys for Bob wanted to become independent. Fortunately, Xbox allowed them to do so.

In a recent interview on YouTube by CanadianGuyEh (CGE), Paul Yan, Co-Studio Head and Creative Director at Toys for Bob, discusses how they’ve managed their newfound independence. From what can be gathered, things appear to be going exceptionally well for them.

Toys for Bob is currently working with Xbox on their initial project since becoming independent, and there are strong indications that it may be a new installment in the Spyro the Dragon series – although it could potentially be something different altogether. However, as Yan stated, they can’t reveal details just yet, but they did stress that development is progressing smoothly.

The team is currently deeply immersed in the development phase, and they are incredibly excited about how the project is progressing. This game is substantial and ambitious, pushing our abilities to unprecedented levels. They will provide further details once it’s appropriate to do so.

Excitingly for enthusiasts of a specific bear-and-bird duo, Paul Yan hinted that the team is ready to breathe life into a game franchise that’s been inactive for quite some time, a revival long yearned for by fans of both Xbox and Nintendo. When asked which studio Toys for Bob would enjoy collaborating with more, Yan subtly suggested a partnership we sincerely hope Xbox takes note of.

An organization we’re eager to collaborate further with is Team Xbox, who we currently partner with. They’ve proven to be an exceptional ally and their diverse lineup of characters offers plenty of potential for Toys for Bob to explore. The honey bear character immediately springs to mind – don’t you think it’s high time Banjo emerged from his slumber? After all, we can all agree he’s had a long winter’s nap, right?

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2025-04-10 23:39