Rare (company)

Rare logo 2010

Xbox-One-Kinect

Rare Limited, commonly known as Rare, is a British video game developer based in Twycross, Leicestershire. The company was established in 1985 by the Stamper brothers, Tim and Chris, after their departure from Ultimate Play The Game. Rare is known for its strong relationship with Nintendo during the 1990s, which resulted in a series of successful titles for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), and Nintendo 64 (N64). In 2002, Rare was acquired by Microsoft and has since focused on developing games for Microsoft's Xbox consoles.

History

Rare was founded by Tim and Chris Stamper, initially focusing on developing games for the NES. The company quickly gained fame with titles such as Battletoads and RC Pro-Am. Rare's partnership with Nintendo in 1994 allowed them to use the Silicon Graphics technology to create advanced graphics, leading to the development of landmark games like Donkey Kong Country, which was notable for its pre-rendered 3D graphics.

During the N64 era, Rare produced some of the most acclaimed titles for the console, including GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, and Perfect Dark. These games were praised for their innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and engaging multiplayer modes.

In 2002, Microsoft acquired Rare for $375 million, making it a first-party developer for the Xbox. Under Microsoft, Rare has developed games such as Kameo: Elements of Power, Perfect Dark Zero, and Sea of Thieves, the latter of which has become one of the company's most successful titles in recent years, thanks to its engaging multiplayer and continuous updates.

Games Developed

Rare has developed a wide range of games across various genres and platforms. Some of their most notable titles include:

- Donkey Kong Country series (SNES) - GoldenEye 007 (N64) - Banjo-Kazooie series (N64, Xbox 360) - Perfect Dark series (N64, Xbox 360) - Sea of Thieves (Xbox One, PC)

Impact and Legacy

Rare's innovative approach to game design and graphics technology has had a significant impact on the video game industry. Their work on the SNES and N64 helped to define the 3D platformer genre and set new standards for multiplayer gaming. Despite facing challenges in adapting to new platforms and audiences, Rare remains an influential developer with a dedicated fan base.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Rare has focused on developing new IPs and expanding its existing franchises. Sea of Thieves, released in 2018, has received numerous updates and expansions, growing a large and active community. Rare has also announced Everwild, a new IP, though details about the game remain scarce.

See Also

- Video game development - History of video games - List of video game developers