New footage offers a better look at Maverick Games' ambitious racer.
Maverick Games has released a new trailer for Clutch, its upcoming narrative-focused racing game set on the French Riviera. The studio, founded by former Playground Games developers including creative director Mike Brown, is positioning the racer as a narrative-driven, customisation-heavy take on high-speed action.
Clutch
Release date: Spring 2027
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox
Developer: Maverick Games
What is Clutch?
Clutch is the first title from Maverick Games, a studio formed by ex-Forza Horizon developers led by Mike Brown. The game was officially revealed earlier this week, alongside a video where Brown outlined its creative direction, with a strong emphasis on storytelling and deep vehicle customisation.
“Set in the French Riviera, follow the story (written by Skins co-creator, Jamie Brittain) of Theo (Tosin Cole) and Cass Martial (Little Simz) through a thrilling adventure that sees them compete in the prestigious Riviera 1000 (R1K) by day, and the underground street-racing scene of the Midnight Collective by night”, Maverick Games said in a press release reported by Video Game Chronicle.
The narrative expands on their troubled upbringing in the UK, their adoption by former racer Ludo Martial, and their rise through the ranks of the R1K circuit.
Following a series of tragedies that have rocked the sport, R1K chief George McBride (Peter Serafinowicz) unveils what he describes as "disruptive technology" designed to prevent further disasters. The move sends shockwaves through the racing world and creates a rift within the sport, drawing Theo toward the Midnight Collective. As tensions escalate, he enlists fixer Emery Whitman (Jane Perry), uncovering a darker side of both the city and R1K in the process.
What gameplay features are in Clutch?
Beyond its story, Clutch promises a wide-open driving experience spanning a variety of environments. According to the developers, players will be able to explore "thousands of miles of diverse roads and terrain," ranging from coastal highways to bustling city streets, with the contrast between the professional R1K racing scene and the style-driven Midnight Collective helping shape the world.
The studio also highlighted the game's emphasis on action and player expression. Alongside "deep vehicle customisation," Clutch will feature high-speed pursuits, daring getaways, and experimental vehicle technology designed to complement its fast-paced driving experience.
How realistic are the cars in Clutch?
Vehicle authenticity is a major focus for Maverick Games, particularly when it comes to capturing how cars evolve through years of use.
Mike Brown said the project's extended development period has allowed the team to make significant investments in its technology and vehicle modelling. Using a custom version of Unreal Engine 5, the studio has pursued what Brown describes as a level of "detail and accuracy never before seen in in-game car models."
The goal is not just visual fidelity, but character. Brown noted that every aspect of a vehicle has been carefully recreated, from paintwork and interior materials to tyre wear, while older cars will display visible signs of age and use that reflect their history on the road.
With its first full trailer now out, Clutch has finally offered a clearer look at what Maverick Games has been building since the studio's formation in 2022. More details on its racing systems, open-world structure, and release plans are expected in the future.
Check out all the game announcements at Summer Game Fest 2026 here.
