Celebrating Four Decades of Gaming Excellence: Rare’s 40th Anniversary
The year 1985 marked a significant era in the British home computer scene, characterized by young, innovative developers creating groundbreaking video games right from their bedrooms. This vibrant period saw the emergence of some notable developers, with Ultimate being one of the most distinguished. Known for its groundbreaking titles like Jetpac and Knight Lore, Ultimate was a pioneer in the gaming industry. However, the studio’s founders, Tim and Chris Stamper, were not content to rest on their past successes.
In a bold move that same year, Tim and Chris Stamper co-founded Rare, a new studio with an ambitious vision. Their goal was to focus on dedicated video game consoles, which had already made waves in Japan and were poised to revolutionize the global market. Fast forward to 2025, and Rare is now celebrating its 40th "Ruby" Anniversary, inviting fans and gamers worldwide to join in the festivities.
Commemorating Rare’s Legacy
The celebrations officially kick off today, August 4, coinciding with the anniversary date. To honor this milestone, a heritage plaque was unveiled at the site of Ultimate’s first home in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. For those unable to visit the English Midlands, Rare has released a collection of new gamerpics and an Xbox dynamic background featuring iconic characters from both past and present Rare titles.
To further mark the occasion, Fangamer is offering a range of retro Rare merchandise. From a varsity hoodie and a wireframe logo T-shirt to a commemorative ruby pin, there’s something for every fan to cherish. Additionally, 8bitdo has unveiled a limited edition wireless controller, bearing Rare’s signature colors and officially licensed by Xbox and Rare, adding a touch of nostalgia to modern gaming setups.
Moreover, iam8bit is opening pre-orders for their newly announced Rare 40th Anniversary vinyl collection. Meanwhile, Evercade enthusiasts can anticipate a new cartridge collection featuring twelve vintage Rare titles spanning home computer, console, and arcade platforms. These offerings provide fans with a tangible way to celebrate and reminisce about Rare’s storied history.
Sea of Thieves: A Ruby Adventure Awaits
The festivities extend to Rare’s popular shared-world pirate adventure game, Sea of Thieves. Starting August 6, a massive heritage sale will take place in the Pirate Emporium, offering discounts on items inspired by classic Rare games. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can claim an exclusive Rare Ruby Emote as a perk for use in the game, adding a unique touch to their pirate personas.
The real excitement begins on August 14 with the arrival of Sea of Thieves’ latest season, Smugglers’ Tide. This limited-time event introduces a variety of anniversary-themed antics. Players can acquire Ancient Coin Packs using Microsoft Rewards points, which come bundled with a Rare Ruby Hat. This hat can also be earned via the Microsoft Rewards app, allowing players to showcase their loyalty to Rare in style.
A 40th Anniversary bundle of cosmetics will also be available in the game’s storefronts. Pirates who log in before the month’s end will receive the Rare Ruby Eyepatch, while an assortment of ruby-themed items will be available in the Outpost shops. The Pirate Emporium will host the limited-time Ruby Reaper’s Mark sails and a Seasonal Plunder Pass, featuring Rare Regalia items adorned in a striking scarlet hue.
Embracing the Community Spirit
Rare’s 40th Anniversary celebrations culminate with the Sea of Thieves Season 17 Community Weekend, commencing on August 30. Participating players will receive the Community Weekend flag and the Paper Cutout Emote. A global community goal rewards players with the coveted Ruby Legend Figurehead, fostering a sense of camaraderie among players. Additionally, group activities such as photo walls and Pop-Up Plunder will be available for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond these gaming festivities, an updated Rare All-Stars EP will hit Spotify on August 15, providing fans with a musical celebration of Rare’s legacy. To stay updated on all the exciting events and announcements, fans are encouraged to follow Rare’s social media channels.
Reflecting on Rare’s Impact
Rare’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a renowned name in the gaming industry is nothing short of remarkable. Over the past four decades, the studio has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and innovation, crafting unforgettable gaming experiences for players of all ages.
From beloved classics like Banjo-Kazooie and Donkey Kong Country to modern hits such as Sea of Thieves, Rare has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. The studio’s commitment to delivering high-quality, imaginative games has earned it a dedicated fan base and a place of honor in gaming history.
As Rare celebrates its 40th Anniversary, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of creativity and passion in the gaming industry. The studio’s ability to adapt and evolve over the years is a testament to its resilience and vision for the future.
In conclusion, Rare’s 40th Anniversary is not just a celebration of its past achievements but also a tribute to the vibrant community that has supported the studio throughout its journey. With exciting events, exclusive rewards, and a deep appreciation for its fans, Rare invites everyone to join in the festivities and celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate players worldwide.
For more information and updates on Rare’s 40th Anniversary celebrations, visit Rare’s official website and follow their social media channels.
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