Yooka-Laylee. $350k in 60 Mins – The Triumphant Return of Rare

Need proof that the 3D platforming revival is upon us? Yooka-Laylee from Playtonic Games (comprised of ex-Rare Ltd staffers) has just launched on Kickstarter to tremendous success. The platformer is a spiritual successor to the much-loved Banjo-Kazooie series, right down to the duo of protagonists. Instead of a bear and bird, though, we’ve got a cute chamelon and bat. Yooka the chamelon is able to use skills related to his long tongue or roll about, while bat Laylee helps fly the team over gaps. It’s quite similar indeed to Banjo-Kazooie, but with a fresh coat of paint.

Of course, for most devotees of Rare, the game could feature anyone as long as it evokes that same classic 3D platformer feel. This is definitely the case with Yooka-Laylee. There are tons of collectibles, but this time there’s a purpose to them other than scratching your completionist itch. Now the more you collect, the more you can unlock of a level. Or, it’s possible to simply use them to open up later stages to work toward the final boss. There’s also something known as Play Tonics in the game which allow the player to modify the game itself. They’ll let you do things like run faster or fly further, which is an interesting distinction from retro platformers.

The affection for Rare and 3D platformers in general is palpable. Tons of gaming fans were waiting for this Kickstarter to launch which is why it succeeded within 40 minutes of launch. How much will Playtonic Games raise by the end? It’s anyone’s guess! Yooka-Laylee is coming to PC (Windows, Mac, Linux), PS4, Wii U, and Xbox One.

Track the progress of the Yooka-Laylee Kickstarter in our Campaign Calendar.