Stamper brothers leave Rare

Chris and Tim Stamper, two original founders of Rare have left the company "to pursue other opportunities," according to 1UP. The brothers helped to create the studio responsible for great titles like Goldeneye 007, Perfect Dark, and Viva Piñata. Although reports indicate that Viva Piñata is suffering from lackluster sales, Microsoft insists that the brother's departure is unrelated.

Is Rare suffering because of their child-like content? Should they be producing more violent games like Goldeneye and Perfect Dark? I loved Viva Piñata, but I can see why the average Xbox 360 owner would be reluctant to buy it because of its colorful visual style.

Mark Betteridge and Gregg Mayles, two long-time Rare employees, will replace the brothers.