Spyro the Dragon is making a long-awaited return with a brand-new game, almost two decades after his last original title. Announced at the Xbox Game Showcase, Spyro: Realms Beyond is being developed by California-based studio Toys for Bob and is scheduled for release in spring 2027 on Xbox, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2.
A Fresh Take on a 90s Icon
The game features a redesigned Spyro with his signature quiff, voiced once again by Tom Kenny, the original actor from the 1990s titles. Unlike earlier games, players can now take flight at any time, offering new gameplay possibilities. Creative director Lou Studdert explained, 'We are leaning into the true capabilities of being a dragon. Players make decisions on how they fly, diving to sustain speed, using fire-breath to light campfires and create updrafts.'
Toys for Bob Returns to Its Roots
Toys for Bob, known for the well-received Spyro Reignited Trilogy remaster in 2018 and the Skylanders series, has become an independent studio. Studio head Paul Yan expressed enthusiasm for returning to the kind of welcoming, whimsical games the developer is passionate about. 'These are positive, optimistic, joyful experiences centered around colorful characters in handcrafted worlds,' Yan said. 'We develop games for broad audiences that appeal to the inner child in all gamers.'
Appealing to a New Generation
The original Spyro fans are now in their 30s and beyond, while those who discovered Spyro through the Skylanders craze are in their 20s. Spyro: Realms Beyond aims to attract both nostalgic parents and a new generation of children. 'We wanted to ensure this is a welcoming entry point for all players, young and old, familiar with the franchise or new to it,' Yan added.
A Return to Family-Friendly Gaming
Colorful platform games like Spyro were abundant in the 90s but are rarer today, with few developers beyond Nintendo catering to a broad audience. Yan believes the industry is seeing a shift back to friendlier tones. 'Tonally, Spyro is something the world needs very much—a game full of optimism and positivity. Our studio mission is to inspire love, joy and laughter, and if trends are putting a spotlight on that, we are all for it.'
