Clutch Revealed Former Forza Horizon Developers Announce Open-World Racing Game
- Yash Choudhary
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
The team that created some of the most popular open-world racing games has finally revealed its next big project. Maverick Games, a studio founded by former Forza Horizon developers has officially announced Clutch, a cinematic open-world racing game set to be released in Spring 2027.
Clutch, led by former Forza Horizon creative director Mike Brown, is the studio's first title since its inception. The game has reportedly been in development for more than three years with the goal of combining high-speed racing, storytelling, and immersive vehicle customization in a unique way for the genre.
Clutch New Story-Driven Racing Adventure
Unlike traditional racing games which focus solely on competition, Clutch prioritizes narrative. The plot revolves around two sibling racers who want to make their mark in the prestigious R1K championship, a legendary racing series that attracts the world's best drivers.
However, the R1K only represents one aspect of the game's world. Players will also come across the Midnight Collective an underground community of car enthusiasts who reject fame and fortune in favor of a pure passion for cars and racing. The contrast between professional competition and underground street culture is expected to be a key theme throughout the campaign.
The game's story is being written by Jamie Brittain, a Scottish writer best known for co-creating the popular British television series Skins.
Built Around a Passion for Driving
Clutch, according to Mike Brown, was created to capitalize on the emotional connection that drivers have with their vehicles. According to the development team, the game focuses on the excitement of driving, the bond between car and driver, and the thrill of speed.
Maverick Games uses a customized version of Unreal Engine 5 to achieve this vision. The technology enables the studio to create extremely detailed vehicle models with realistic paintwork, interior materials, tire wear, and even signs of age on classic cars. Rather than presenting every vehicle in showroom condition, older vehicles will show scratches, wear, and unique characteristics that reflect their past.
More Than Just Racing
While Maverick Games has yet to reveal specific gameplay details, the announcement suggests a variety of activities beyond traditional racing events. The footage shown during the reveal suggests that players may engage in high-speed police pursuits, dangerous escapes, and other action-packed missions.
Several scenes also hinted at advanced driving gadgets such as grappling-hook-style tools, which could lead to creative gameplay moments and spectacular chase sequences. These features indicate that Clutch may combine arcade-style action with open-world exploration providing racing fans with a one-of-a-kind experience.
Clutch Deep Vehicle Customization
Customization appears to be another important aspect of the game. Players will reportedly be able to personalize both the exterior and interior of their vehicles. From upholstery details to decorative touches, the goal is to make each vehicle feel personalized and lived-in rather than simply modified for performance.
This attention to detail reflects Maverick Games' overall philosophy of celebrating car culture and the stories that go with each vehicle.
Clutch Full Gameplay Reveal Coming Soon
Although the initial reveal only gave fans a glimpse of what Clutch has to offer, they won't have to wait long for a more detailed look. Maverick Games has confirmed that the first full trailer will be released during Summer Game Fest, where the studio plans to reveal gameplay, story elements, and more information about its ambitious new racing world.
Clutch is already shaping up to be one of the most intriguing racing games in development, thanks to experienced Forza Horizon individuals at the top and a heavy focus on storytelling.
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