Rare 40th Anniversary: Ruby Rewards & Exclusive Merchandise

Hamza Hameed August 4, 2025

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Gaming Legend Rare’s 40th Anniversary Marks Four Decades of Innovation

Video game developer Rare is commemorating its remarkable Rare 40th anniversary with an extensive celebration featuring exclusive merchandise, in-game rewards, and special events throughout August 2025. The British studio, originally founded as Ultimate by the Stamper brothers in 1985, has evolved into one of gaming’s most beloved developers.

Key Rare 40th Anniversary Highlights

Heritage Recognition

Official commemorative blue plaque unveiled at Ultimate’s original Ashby-de-la-Zouch location
New Xbox gamerpics and dynamic backgrounds featuring iconic Rare characters
Heritage celebration begins August 4, 2025

Exclusive Merchandise Collection The Rare 40th anniversary brings a treasure trove of collectibles for fans:

Fangamer Rare Collection includes:

Limited edition varsity hoodie
Vintage wireframe logo T-shirt
Commemorative ruby anniversary pin
Available at Fangamer’s official Rare collection

8bitdo Special Controller

Wireless controller in Rare’s signature colors
Officially licensed by Xbox and Rare
Limited anniversary edition design
Order from 8bitdo’s official store

iam8bit Vinyl Collection

4xLP Rare 40th Anniversary box set
Pre-orders opening later this week at iam8bit
Features classic game soundtracks

Evercade Cartridge Collection

12 vintage Rare titles spanning multiple platforms
Includes home computer, console, and arcade games
Available at Evercade official site
Perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts

Sea of Thieves Rare 40th Anniversary Ruby Rewards Program

The pirate adventure game serves as the centerpiece for anniversary celebrations:

Immediate Rewards (August 2025)

Heritage sale in Pirate Emporium begins August 6
Discounts on classic Rare-inspired items
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers receive exclusive Rare Ruby Emote

Smugglers’ Tide Season (August 14)

New seasonal content with anniversary themes
Limited-time Ancient Coin Packs with Rare Ruby Hat
Microsoft Rewards integration for bonus items

Free Anniversary Items

Rare Ruby Eyepatch for all players logging in during August
Ruby-themed cosmetics in Outpost shops
Limited-time Ruby Reaper’s Mark sails in Pirate Emporium

Community Events and Activities

Season 17 Community Weekend (August 30)

Community Weekend flag and Paper Cutout Emote rewards
Ruby Legend Figurehead unlock through global community goals
Interactive photo walls and Pop-Up Plunder activities
Special Twitch Drops throughout the event

Music and Entertainment

Updated Rare All-Stars EP releases on Spotify August 15
Features remastered tracks from beloved Rare franchises

The Rare Legacy: From Bedroom Coders to Gaming Icons

Rare’s journey began during the golden age of British home computing in 1985. Co-founders Tim and Chris Stamper transitioned from Ultimate Play The Game, creators of revolutionary titles like Jetpac and Knight Lore, to establish Rare as a console-focused developer.

The studio’s 40-year history includes:

Pioneering work on Nintendo Entertainment System
Creation of beloved franchises like Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, and Perfect Dark
Modern success with Sea of Thieves’ shared-world pirate adventures
Continuous innovation in game design and technology

How to Participate in the Anniversary Celebration

For Sea of Thieves Players:

Log in before August 31 for free Rare Ruby Eyepatch
Check Pirate Emporium for heritage sale discounts
Participate in Community Weekend events starting August 30
Claim Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Rare Ruby Emote perk

For Collectors:

Visit Fangamer for official merchandise
Pre-order iam8bit vinyl collection when available
Check 8bitdo for limited controller availability
Explore Evercade cartridge collection for retro gaming

Why This Rare 40th Anniversary Celebration Matters

Rare’s 40th anniversary represents more than just a milestone—it celebrates four decades of gaming innovation, creativity, and community building. From the early days of cassette tape distribution to modern live-service gaming, Rare has consistently pushed boundaries and created memorable experiences.

The ruby theme chosen for this Rare 40th anniversary reflects both the traditional 40th anniversary gemstone and Rare’s enduring value in the gaming industry. With Sea of Thieves continuing to attract millions of players worldwide, Rare proves that veteran developers can successfully adapt to modern gaming landscapes while honoring their rich heritage.

Don’t Miss Out: Follow Rare’s official Twitter and social channels for the latest updates on Rare 40th anniversary events, limited-time offers, and exclusive content throughout August 2025. This celebration truly embodies the saying “you only turn 40 once!”