The gaming world is saying goodbye to a legend. After a remarkable 36-year run, Gregg Mayles, the creative force behind beloved titles like Banjo-Kazooie and Sea of Thieves, has officially announced his departure from Rare. This news, initially surfacing amidst a wave of restructuring across Xbox Games Studios in July 2025, has been confirmed by Mayles himself via a heartfelt message on X. His exit marks the end of an era for the iconic studio and leaves fans wondering what the future holds for both Mayles and Rare.

A Rare Farewell: Gregg Mayles’ Departure Confirmed

The announcement, delivered through a poignant short poem on X, puts an end to speculation surrounding Mayles’ status at Rare. While initial reports hinted at his departure due to widespread layoffs and game cancellations within Xbox Game Studios, Mayles’ official statement provides closure, albeit with a bittersweet feeling. His departure signifies a significant shift at Rare, a studio deeply intertwined with his creative vision for over three decades.

Mayles’ journey with Rare began long before the studio’s acquisition by Microsoft. He witnessed and shaped Rare’s evolution from a Nintendo powerhouse to a key player in the Xbox ecosystem. During his tenure, he contributed to several games, each leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

From Battletoads to Banjo-Kazooie: A Legacy of Innovation

Gregg Mayles’ influence on the gaming landscape is undeniable. Early in his career, he lent his talents to titles like Battletoads, contributing to the game’s distinctive visual style and challenging gameplay. However, it was his work on Donkey Kong Country that truly solidified his reputation as a gifted designer. He was fundamental to realizing the vision of using pre-rendered 3D graphics which created a unique and immersive gaming experience for the time.

Of course, Mayles is most famously known as the mastermind behind Banjo-Kazooie, a title that has become synonymous with Rare’s golden age. As the game’s creator, he crafted a vibrant world filled with memorable characters, charming humor, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Banjo-Kazooie became an instant classic, and has left an enduring legacy that continues to captivate players to this day. Its whimsical design and challenging puzzles helped to define the 3D platformer genre and propelled Rare to new heights of success.

Beyond Banjo-Kazooie, Mayles’ contribution extended to other successful titles. Later in his career, he took the helm as creative director for Sea of Thieves, Rare’s ambitious open-world pirate adventure. Mayles helped guide the project from initial concept to a live service game that has continued to evolve with consistent updates. Sea of Thieves embodies his dedication to creating unique, immersive gaming experiences that foster community and exploration.

The Future of Rare and the Mystery of Mayles’ Next Chapter

Mayles’ departure raises questions about the future direction of Rare. Without his guiding hand, the studio will undoubtedly undergo changes as new creative voices emerge. While Rare possesses a talented team, Mayles’ experience and vision will be sorely missed. The cancellation of Everwild, a project he was reportedly involved in, adds another layer of uncertainty to the studio’s upcoming projects.

As for Gregg Mayles, his next move remains shrouded in mystery. The gaming community is eager to see what projects he will pursue. Whether he joins another studio, embarks on an independent venture, or takes a well-deserved break, his talent and passion will undoubtedly continue to shape the gaming world. His departure from Rare marks the end of a chapter, but it also opens up exciting possibilities for the future.

The gaming world bids farewell to Gregg Mayles, a true visionary who has left an indelible mark on the industry. His contributions to titles like Battletoads, Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, and Sea of Thieves will be remembered for generations to come. As he embarks on a new chapter in his career, fans eagerly await to see what creations he will bring to life next. His legacy at Rare will remain strong, and we are excited to see what lies ahead for both him and the studio.