iam8bit is teaming up with legendary UK developer Rare to mark the studio’s 40th anniversary with an epic vinyl release: the Rare 40th Anniversary Box Set 4xLP. The collection features two and a half hours of music spanning Rare’s storied catalog, from the 8-bit era to modern classics, and will be available for $100 starting Thursday, August 7.
Four Decades of Rare Magic
From arcade-style shooters to fighting game showdowns, from cheeky animal platformers to sprawling pirate adventures, Rare’s library has defined—and redefined—generations of gaming. This set features compositions from a dream team of Rare musicians, including:
- David Wise (Donkey Kong Country, Battletoads)
- Grant Kirkhope (Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark)
- Robin Beanland (Sea of Thieves, Killer Instinct)
- Mark Waithe, Akil the MC, David Clynick, Alistair Lindsay, Jamie Hughes, Graeme Norgate, Steven Burke
Each of the four records is pressed on a unique Rareware Gold or Blue vinyl, paying tribute to the studio’s evolving logo and that unforgettable startup screen fans know by heart.
Artwork for the Ages
iam8bit enlisted artist Lewy Jones to create a sprawling collage that crams in Rare’s most memorable characters, enemies, and oddballs—complete with hidden Easter eggs for longtime fans. Each sleeve features its own showcase of Rare imagery, from Viva Piñata’s colorful creatures to the, uh, “great and mighty” moments of Conker’s Bad Fur Day.
The entire set comes housed in a premium full-cover display box, built to be as collectible as the music it contains.
“One of the great things about a collection like this is the sheer variety of musical styles, from classical reinterpreted as chiptunes to sweeping, orchestral melodies and everything in between,” said Rare Music Director Robin Beanland. “Whether you’ve been along for our 40 year ride or you’re hearing these compositions for the first time, we like to think there’s something for everyone here. Happy Anniversary, Rare!”
The Rare 40th Anniversary Box Set 4xLP goes on sale August 7, 2025 exclusively via iam8bit.com.
