Microsoft said no to PlayStation 4 exclusive Rime

Microsoft at one stage turned down a chance to own the title that would end up becoming intriguing PlayStation 4 exclusive Rime, leaked documents have revealed.

VG Leaks published the documents, which showed that Tequila Works asked Microsoft for $3 million to develop an Xbox Live Arcade version of what was then called Echoes of Siren. The title would also come to Windows 8 and Windows Phone, and was described as "Gauntlet meets Minecraft meets Jason and the Argonauts" in its pitch document.

Microsoft studios exec Phil Spencer answered a question on Twitter about why Microsoft declined the option to fund the game. "Part of job is living with mistakes," said Spencer.

"Passed on Guitar Hero...I can list many misses regretfully. I try to focus on what we did ship."

"We'll miss some, nature of the beast," he added, "it's why I don't hate when games ship elsewhere. Cool to see team's idea turn into great game."

Rime is still in development for PlayStation 4. It does not yet have a release date, but captured the imagination of many when it was unveiled at Gamescom 2013.