Ex-Forza Horizon Devs Reveal Open-World Racer Clutch

Maverick Games, the studio founded by former Forza Horizon developers, has unveiled its debut title, Clutch. The open-world racing game is scheduled to launch in Spring 2027 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.

Led by former Forza Horizon 5 creative director, Mike Brown, the game has been in development for three and a half years using a custom version of Unreal Engine 5 (UE5). Maverick describes Clutch as a driving-focused experience built around a narrative campaign, competitive racing, and a large open world set on the French Riviera.

The story follows sibling racing prodigies competing in the R1K, a prestigious racing championship celebrating its 100th anniversary. Alongside the professional racing circuit, players will encounter the Midnight Collective, a group of enthusiasts who care less about money and fame than the culture and thrill of driving.

The narrative is written by Jamie Brittain, co-creator of the British television series Skins.

Clutch Brings Street Racing, Police Chases, and PvPvE Events

Beyond traditional circuit racing, Clutch introduces an underground element involving police pursuits, street racing, and criminal activity. Reveal footage shows players using gadgets such as nitrous boosts and grappling hooks while evading law enforcement, contrasting with sanctioned races featuring professional motorsport machinery.

Maverick also describes the game as featuring PvPvE gameplay, where players compete against one another while occasionally working together against shared threats. The studio says Clutch will feature "hand-crafted and spontaneous missions and races" designed to break away from established open-world racing formulas.

The reveal trailer showcased a diverse vehicle lineup spanning classic sports cars, modern supercars, rally icons, and off-road vehicles. Among the confirmed models are the Mazda RX-7 FD, BMW M3 GTR, BMW 850 CSi, Porsche 911 GT3 S/C, Renault Mégane RS, Aston Martin Valhalla, Alfa Romeo 4C, Porsche 911 Turbo (930), Subaru Impreza WRX STI (specifically the "Hawkeye" generation), Land Rover Defender, and Nissan Skyline GT-R R34.

Vehicle Detail and Customization are Major Focuses

Brown stated the extended development period allowed the studio to invest heavily in vehicle authenticity. He further noted that Clutch recreates details ranging from paint imperfections and interior stitching to tire wear, while older vehicles will display realistic signs of age and use rather than appearing factory fresh.

Players will also be able to customize vehicles extensively, modifying components such as bodywork, wheels, exhaust tips, seats, steering wheels, window tint, and underglow. Interior personalization extends further, allowing items such as cups, clothing, and dashboard accessories to be placed inside vehicles.

Maverick Games will reveal the first full trailer for Clutch during Summer Game Fest on June 5. The presentation is expected to provide a closer look at the game's story, world, and gameplay systems as the studio positions its debut title against established open-world racing franchises such as Forza Horizon, The Crew Motorfest, and Need for Speed.

Ahead of the announcement, Maverick Games invited several racing-focused content creators, including BlackPanthaa, KuruHS, and SidWaj, to play an early version of Clutch. The creators have since published hands-on impressions and feedback ahead of the game's full reveal.