Two of Rare's three founders, Chris and Tim Stamper, have decided to pack their bags and head for greener pastures. While some may assume that this departure is the result of Viva Piñata's undeservedly low sales and a string of games that failed to live up to their potential -- Grabbed by the Ghoulies, Kameo, Perfect Dark Zero -- Microsoft assures the world that the brothers are "simply leaving to pursue other opportunities." Studio veterans, Mark Betteridge and Greg Mayles will take over the roles of Studio Director and Creative Director, respectively.Viva Piñata was quite an achievement, fellas. 360 Fanboy wishes the Stampers nothing but the best.
[Via Joystiq]
1. I won't miss Rare games. Virtual every game they've made for MS has sucked. Viva maybe good in parts but its poorly designed so it doesnt appeal to the mass market and is not really a kids game either hence the poor sales.
The strategy thinking within Rare is poor and their sales results show this, bottom line.
Hopefully this will give a fading company a much needed kick up the ass.
Posted at 11:34AM on Jan 3rd 2007 by 360 tag: JJS UK