Ambitious open-world racing game Clutch made the big decision to launch shortly before Gamescom 2026. British development studio Maverick Games and French publisher Focus Entertainment have officially announced that the two companies are now working together to bring the game to global markets. After parting ways with Amazon Games earlier this year, the studio, led by former Forza Horizon creative director Mike Brown, is looking for a new partner. Through this agreement, the manufacturer has secured a planned release date for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in the spring of 2027.
Maverick Games describes Clutch as a cinematic open-world action racing game based on Unreal Engine 5 that combines the world of professional motorsports with the illegal street racing scene. The backdrop of the title is a detailed reconstruction of the French Riviera, stretching from Monaco’s coastal roads through Cannes and Saint-Tropez to the mountain pass roads in the Alps.
The plot focuses on siblings Theo and Cass Martial. The two competed in the traditional professional racing series R1K during the day, but at night they were involved in the criminal activities of the underground group Midnight Collective.
Gameplay combines classic track racing, law enforcement chases, and a dynamic game world with overlapping PvP and PvE elements. A core feature are specially developed vehicle models that include realistic wear and tear and a wide range of performance and appearance modification options. In addition to a focused narration by lead author Jamie Brittain, the production relies on a top-notch voice cast, including actors such as Peter Serafinowicz, Tosin Cole and musician Little Simz.
For Focus Entertainment, this partnership represents the first foray into narrative open-world racing games. The publisher, whose games focus heavily on plot and atmosphere, was seen as a suitable partner for Maverick Games’ plans to combine racing gameplay with deep character stories. The developer and publisher hope to showcase fresh footage and detailed insights into gameplay at the upcoming Gamescom show.
