Grant Kirkhope Shares Doubts on New Banjo-Kazooie Game as Franchise's Future Remains Unclear

Banjo-Kazooie Composer Grant Kirkhope Voices 'Zero Hope' for New Series Entry Amid Franchises's Lingering Popularity Banjo-Kazooie remains a beloved part of gaming history, renowned for its whimsical platforming, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack.

Developed by Rare and first released on the Nintendo 64 in 1998, Banjo-Kazooie has established a loyal fanbase over decades, with its sequel Banjo-Tooie and the later Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts further expanding the series.

Despite the franchise’s enduring acclaim and recent inclusion on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, the future of Banjo-Kazooie is currently a topic of industry debate. This discussion intensified earlier this week when Moon Studios' co-founder Thomas Mahler publicly expressed his enthusiasm for seeing Banjo-Kazooie revived by a new wave of creative talent.

However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Grant Kirkhope, the composer responsible for the original trilogy's memorable music.

Taking to social media, Kirkhope stated that he has “zero hope” for a potential new Banjo-Kazooie release, referencing long-standing uncertainty about Microsoft’s interest in reviving the franchise since acquiring Rare in 2002. Kirkhope elaborated that the challenges of bringing back Banjo-Kazooie go beyond development hurdles; he noted that expectations from the game's passionate fanbase present a significant barrier.

In his words, even if a new title were produced to an exceptionally high standard, "dedicated fans could be quick to criticize or reject it, irrespective of its quality." Shortly after, Kirkhope softened his stance, recognizing the strength and enthusiasm of the Banjo-Kazooie community, describing it as a "wonderful thing." Despite the lack of new entries, Banjo and Kazooie have remained relevant in gaming culture.

In 2019, both characters joined the roster of Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate as DLC fighters, marking a momentous return and introducing them to a new generation of Nintendo Switch players.

Further cementing their legacy, both Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie are now accessible through the Nintendo 64 app on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, thanks to Microsoft's collaboration with Nintendo. The Banjo-Kazooie series stands as a testament to enduring creativity, with Grant Kirkhope’s original score remaining one of gaming’s most cherished soundtracks.

Yet, with no official word from Microsoft or Rare on future installments, the prospect of a new Banjo-Kazooie game is uncertain.

As the franchise continues to attract nostalgic fans and curious newcomers on Nintendo platforms, the hope for a modern revival persists—if not in the minds of its creators, then certainly within the wider gaming community.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Nintendo Switch Online Switch Online Banjo-Kazooie Grant Kirkhope Switch