Spyro And Crash Bandicoot Reboot Studio, Toys For Bob, Wants To Bring Back Banjo-Kazooie Next

As a dedicated fan myself, I can confidently say that no one is doing more for the revitalization of mascot platformers than the talented team at Toys for Bob. Ever since 2018, this once Microsoft-owned studio has been responsible for the incredible releases of the Spyro Reignited Trilogy, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, Crash Bandicoot 4, and most recently, Crash Team Rumble. Their work has breathed new life into two franchises that were long overdue for a comeback. And now, Paul Yan, co-studio head and creative director at Toys for Bob, has hinted at the studio’s plans to tackle another iconic platforming series – Banjo-Kazooie! I can hardly contain my excitement!

In a recent chat with CanadianGuyEh (as reported by Windows Central), Yan talked about Toys for Bob’s future ventures. Not only did it appear that he hinted at a potential new installment in the Spyro the Dragon franchise, but he also expressed the team’s aspiration to collaborate with Xbox on resurrecting the lively pair, Banjo-Kazooie.

One collaborator we’re keen on continuing our work with is none other than Team Xbox! They’ve proven to be an excellent partner and their diverse cast of characters presents numerous opportunities for fun and creativity. The bear character instantly springs to mindI believe it’s high time Banjo comes out of his hibernation, don’t you agree?” Yan said.

While a Banjo-Kazooie remake or reboot isn’t definitively in progress, given Toys for Bob’s history and partnership with Xbox, it appears more a question of “when” rather than “if.” Even though the studio separated from Activision, which is now owned by Microsoft, in 2023, they have maintained a strong relationship with Xbox and are currently working together on an unannounced project that many believe to be Spyro the Dragon 4. However, Yan has only hinted at the upcoming project without revealing details, assuring fans that development is progressing smoothly.

We’re deeply immersed in the process of creating this project, and the team is incredibly excited about the direction it’s taking. This game is substantial and daring, pushing the boundaries of our skills to unprecedented levels.

Before departing Activision, Toys for Bob had been shifted away from creating their popular whimsical platformers to instead support the Call of Duty series. As per ex-senior concept artist Nicholas Kole, they were also required to abandon Crash Bandicoot 5. Following the dismissal of 86 employees at the studio in Microsoft’s 2023 mass layoffs, Toys for Bob sought and received autonomy.

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2025-04-11 01:39