Forza Horizon 5 Director’s New Studio Announces Open-World Action-Driving Game ‘Clutch’

Maverick Games has officially pulled the curtain back on their debut title, Clutch, an ambitious open-world action-driving experience. The studio was established by industry veteran Mike Brown, the visionary creative force behind Forza Horizon 5 and a key designer for previous entries in that acclaimed series. While Brown is synonymous with the gold standard of open-world racing, Clutch promises to pivot toward a more cinematic, narrative-heavy direction.

At its core, Clutch delivers a high-stakes, story-driven campaign centering on siblings navigating the prestigious R1K racing circuit. Players will oscillate between sanctioned professional events and the clandestine, stylish world of the “Midnight Collective”—an underground racing scene where shadows hide dark secrets. As the protagonist becomes entangled in the criminal underbelly of this world, the narrative promises to be as gripping as the races themselves.

The gameplay loop blends traditional racing skill with a living, evolving sandbox environment. Players must navigate a complex landscape of shifting alliances and rival crews within a dynamic PvPvE (Player vs. Player vs. Environment) framework. Whether you are tackling meticulously designed missions or reacting to unpredictable, spontaneous encounters on the open road, the game leverages Maverick’s proprietary physics engine to foster constant, emergent chaos.

Beyond the high-octane racing, customization serves as a cornerstone of the experience. The developer emphasizes an intricate vehicle modification system that goes far beyond simple cosmetic upgrades. By focusing on granular, personal details, the studio aims to foster a tangible, intimate connection between the driver and their machine.

While this marks Maverick Games’ inaugural project, Mike Brown’s pedigree provides significant peace of mind for racing fans. His track record—most notably the 9.5-rated Forza Horizon 5—sets high expectations for Clutch. We anticipate getting a much closer look at the game during the Summer Game Fest Showcase this Friday, June 5. Interested players can look forward to hitting the streets when Clutch arrives in the spring of 2027.

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