Banjo-Kazooie 3: An Unforeseen Future or A Fanbase in Hiding?

Grant Kirkhope, a former composer at Rare, does not believe that there is a demand for a potential third installment of the Banjo-Kazooie game series. Banjo-Kazooie was a popular 3D platformer released on Nintendo's 64-bit console, which contributed to Rare's success alongside the SNES Donkey Kong Country trilogy. In June 2023, the series marked its 25th anniversary, prompting former Rare developers, including Grant Kirkhope, to reflect on its accomplishments and legacy. Kirkhope, a renowned British music composer, is recognized for his contributions to various video games during the N64 era, with Banjo-Kazooie being one of his notable works. After Microsoft acquired Rare in 2008, he left to pursue freelancing opportunities, but has occasionally collaborated with Nintendo on projects such as the Banjo-Kazooie soundtrack medley for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Despite the series' enduring popularity, Kirkhope and other former Rare developers believe that there is not a sufficient audience to support the development of a third installment.

In an interview with VGC, former Rare employees Chris Sutherland, Grant Kirkhope, and Steve Mayles expressed their skepticism about the possibility of a Banjo-Kazooie revival. Mayles suggested that Gregg Mayles, the Rare creative director, would prioritize creating new experiences rather than revisiting old ground with the franchise. Similarly, Kirkhope shared this sentiment by stating that the humor and team dynamics needed for a hypothetical "Banjo 3" are unlikely to be found in the present day. Consequently, both Mayles and Kirkhope concluded that the audience for such a game may not exist anymore.

Kirkhope's comments about the lack of audience may appear odd, considering the strong support for Banjo's inclusion in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. However, this doesn't necessarily guarantee a desire for a third game. The challenges of meeting the expectations for a 3D collectathon platformer, whether rooted in the 90s or adapted for modern times, would also burden a potential third game.

Yooka-Laylee attempted to recreate the 90s with the same collectathon focus as Banjo-Kazooie. Despite being seen as a spiritual successor with former Rare staff members involved, Yooka-Laylee was met with a mixed reception. Other endeavors, such as Clive 'N' Wrench and Hat in Time, have also aimed to recapture the magic of the bear and bird's platforming era.

Banjo-Kazooie is available now for all Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack owners.

Source: VGC