A Dream Project for the Studio
Toys for Bob, the developer celebrated for successfully revitalizing classic platforming icons like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon, has publicly signaled interest in tackling another legendary series: Banjo-Kazooie. The studio’s enthusiasm for the bear-and-bird duo was revealed during an appearance on the Kinda Funny Gamescast.
When asked about the possibility of working on the franchise, the team didn't hold back:
«It's a franchise we love. As platformer fans, Banjo's top of the heap. We have some huge, huge fans of that franchise on our staff – I'm talking, they've got the Jiggie as their profile pic, kind of a thing. They're that level of fan. If the opportunity ever arose, that would be amazing.»
Connecting with the "Inner Child"
The developers emphasized that Banjo-Kazooie aligns perfectly with the studio’s design philosophy. They view the characters as timeless icons that resonate with the "inner child" in players. Toys for Bob believes that the core appeal of these games fits seamlessly into the style of projects they are most passionate about creating.
The Long Wait for a True Successor
Despite being considered a pillar of the 3D platformer genre—having helped define the space alongside Super Mario 64—the franchise has been largely dormant for years. The last major release, 2008's Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, remains divisive among fans for shifting the focus toward vehicle construction and racing rather than traditional platforming exploration.
Aside from their inclusion as playable fighters in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate back in 2019, the duo has been noticeably absent from the gaming scene. Given their track record with the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy and the Spyro Reignited Trilogy, many observers see Toys for Bob as the most qualified candidate to return the series to its roots.
Looking Ahead
While Microsoft has yet to announce any formal plans for a new Banjo-Kazooie game, Toys for Bob’s history of persistence—including their recent efforts to secure the future of the Spyro series—suggests they have the tenacity to pursue such a project if the door opens. For now, fans of their work are shifting their focus toward the upcoming Spyro: A Realm Beyond, which promises to be a nostalgic continuation for those who grew up in the 90s.