Focus Entertainment has announced a significant publishing partnership with independent studio Maverick Games for its upcoming open-world racing title, Clutch. This deal marks Focus Entertainment's entry into the open-world racing genre, aiming to bolster its diverse portfolio.
"At Focus, we look to partner with creators who are redefining their genre," stated Focus deputy CEO Vincent Chataignier. "Mike Brown and his team are regarded as one of the defining creative voices in the racing genre, and Clutch embodies exactly the creative ambition Focus Entertainment wants to champion."
Clutch is slated for release in early to mid-2027 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game promises a blend of circuit racing, street racing, and high-octane action inspired by films like The Fast and the Furious, complete with heists and a focus on customization. Its open world is set in the French Riviera, featuring locales such as Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Players can expect a variety of car-based gadgets, including a grappling hook designed for dynamic cornering.
Maverick Games, founded in 2022 and comprised of veterans from Forza Horizon developer Playground Games, had previously entered a publishing agreement with Amazon. However, Amazon withdrew from the project earlier this year as part of a strategic shift.