Banjo-Kazooie Revival: Toys for Bob Expresses Interest in Fan-Favorite Series for Nintendo Switch

Banjo-Kazooie, the beloved 3D platformer developed by Rare, has remained a cherished part of video game history since its debut on the Nintendo 64 in 1998.

Fans have long anticipated a return of the bear-and-bird duo, especially on modern platforms such as the Nintendo Switch.

Now, comments from Toys for Bob, the acclaimed studio behind successful entries in the Spyro, Skylanders, and Crash Bandicoot series, have sparked renewed excitement for a possible Banjo-Kazooie revival. In a recent interview with Canadian Guy Eh, Toys for Bob co-studio head Paul Yan named Banjo-Kazooie as a franchise he would love the studio to revisit.

Yan emphasized the studio's positive relationship with Team Xbox, describing Microsoft as “a great partner” and highlighting the rich roster of characters available.

Yan remarked that Banjo-Kazooie is "the first one that comes to mind" when considering potential projects, suggesting the iconic bear "has been on the sidelines for long enough." Toys for Bob, previously an Xbox studio under the Activision banner, became an independent entity in 2024.

Despite this shift, the studio continues to collaborate closely with Microsoft, with Team Xbox slated as publisher for the developers’ upcoming, yet-to-be-revealed project.

Paul Yan’s recent statements build upon his prior public support for a Banjo-Kazooie revival, dating back to 2022 when he cited both Banjo-Kazooie and Spyro as series deserving a fresh installment. Although Banjo-Kazooie last saw a major release with 2008's Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts on the Xbox 360, the series has maintained its presence in the gaming community.

Banjo and Kazooie rejoined Nintendo platforms in 2019 with their inclusion as playable fighters in Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate.

More recently, fans can experience both the original Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, making the series accessible to a new generation on the Nintendo Switch eShop. Industry figures continue to express admiration for the franchise’s legacy.

Notably, Thomas Mahler of Moon Studios stated earlier this year that he would be thrilled to see a skilled studio bring Banjo-Kazooie back to life.

However, long-time series composer Grant Kirkhope has indicated a more reserved outlook on the likelihood of a sequel. As market interest in classic platformers remains robust and support for Banjo-Kazooie endures within both the industry and its fanbase, momentum for a return appears strong.

With platforms like the Nintendo Switch thriving and key industry voices expressing support, the prospect of a Banjo-Kazooie renaissance is more tangible than ever.

Stay tuned to Nintendo Life for further updates on Banjo-Kazooie, Toys for Bob, and related news from Nintendo Direct and the eShop.

Nintendo Switch Banjo-Kazooie Toys for Bob Team Xbox Rare Nintendo Xbox Switch