Maverick Games Reveals Open-World Driving Title Clutch
Maverick Games, founded by former Forza Horizon creative director Mike Brown, has announced its debut title Clutch, an open-world driving game. The game is currently in development for PC and consoles.
Maverick Games, a studio established by former Forza Horizon creative director Mike Brown, has officially announced its first project. The game is called Clutch, an open-world driving experience that aims to carve its own identity in the genre. Brown, who led the development of multiple Forza Horizon titles, is now steering this new venture under the Maverick Games banner.
Clutch is described as an open-world driving game, though specific details about its setting, mechanics, or narrative remain scarce. The studio has emphasized that the title will focus on player freedom and exploration, drawing from the team's extensive experience with the Forza Horizon series. Maverick Games was founded in 2022 and has since grown to include several veterans from the racing game industry.
The announcement came via a brief teaser and a statement from Mike Brown, who expressed excitement about revealing the project. Brown noted that the team is committed to delivering a fresh take on the driving genre, leveraging their collective expertise. The game is being built using Unreal Engine 5, though no gameplay footage has been shown yet.
Maverick Games has not provided a release window for Clutch, stating only that development is underway. The studio is targeting both PC and console platforms, but specific consoles have not been confirmed. The team is currently hiring for several positions, indicating that the project is still in early stages.
Clutch enters a competitive market dominated by franchises like Forza Horizon, Gran Turismo, and The Crew. Brown's departure from Playground Games in 2022 was followed by the formation of Maverick Games, which secured investment from Chinese publisher NetEase. The studio has remained relatively quiet until this reveal.
Fans of open-world driving games will have to wait for more concrete details. Maverick Games has promised to share additional information in the coming months, including gameplay footage and a deeper look at the game's world. For now, Clutch exists as a name and a concept, with the team focused on building out its vision.
The announcement of Clutch marks a significant step for Maverick Games as it transitions from a startup to a game developer with a public-facing project. The studio's pedigree suggests a strong foundation, but the final product will ultimately determine its success. Clutch is expected to launch on PC and consoles at a date yet to be announced.
Turkish Studio Umuro Game Launches Akita: Legends Squad on Nintendo Switch
Turkish developer Umuro Game has released Akita: Legends Squad for the Nintendo Switch. The game is optimized for both handheld and TV modes.
Turkish game development studio Umuro Game has launched its latest title, Akita: Legends Squad, on the Nintendo Switch. The game is now available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop.
Akita: Legends Squad is designed to deliver optimal performance in both handheld and TV modes. The developers have tailored the experience to leverage the Switch's hybrid capabilities, ensuring smooth gameplay regardless of the player's setup.
The game falls under the action-adventure genre, featuring squad-based mechanics. Players control a team of characters, each with unique abilities, to progress through levels and overcome challenges.
Umuro Game, known for its previous title Umuro, has focused on creating a visually appealing and responsive experience for the Switch. The studio emphasized optimization to maintain consistent frame rates and resolution across both modes.
Akita: Legends Squad is available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch platform. It can be downloaded from the Nintendo eShop in regions where the store is accessible.
Pricing details for the game have not been disclosed by the developer. The title supports multiple languages, though the specific list has not been provided.
Umuro Game stated that the release marks the studio's continued commitment to bringing its titles to Nintendo's console. The company has not announced plans for ports to other platforms at this time.
Valve Releases SteamOS 3.8.6 Beta with New Handheld Support and HDMI VRR
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.6 Beta, adding support for multiple handheld gaming devices and introducing Variable Refresh Rate over HDMI. The update is available for download now.
Valve has rolled out the SteamOS 3.8.6 Beta update, bringing expanded hardware compatibility and a key display feature. The release adds support for several new handheld gaming consoles, broadening the operating system's reach beyond the Steam Deck. Users can now install the beta version through the system update channel.
The update introduces Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support over HDMI connections. This feature allows compatible displays to dynamically adjust their refresh rate to match the game's frame rate, reducing screen tearing and stuttering. VRR was previously available only over DisplayPort, so the HDMI addition expands options for TV and monitor users.
Among the newly supported handheld devices are the ASUS ROG Ally and the Ayaneo series, according to Valve's release notes. The update also includes fixes for audio issues and improvements to system stability. Valve has not specified the full list of supported devices, but the update targets a range of x86-based portable gaming PCs.
The beta release is part of Valve's ongoing effort to make SteamOS a viable alternative for third-party hardware. The company has been gradually expanding compatibility since the Steam Deck's launch, with previous updates adding support for devices like the GPD Win and OneXPlayer.
Users can opt into the beta by navigating to System Settings and selecting the Beta participation option. Valve warns that beta software may contain bugs and advises users to back up their data before installing. The stable version of SteamOS 3.8.6 is expected to follow after testing.
Valve has not announced a specific release date for the stable update. The company encourages users to report any issues encountered during the beta phase through the SteamOS GitHub repository. The update is free for all SteamOS users.
For now, the SteamOS 3.8.6 Beta is available for download. Valve stated that the update aims to improve the experience across a wider range of devices, reinforcing SteamOS's position as a versatile gaming platform.
Mina the Hollower and Sims alternative lead indie game roundup
A new indie game roundup highlights Mina the Hollower, a retro-style action game, and a Sims alternative among other notable releases. These titles showcase diverse genres and innovative mechanics from independent developers.
A fresh batch of indie games has arrived, offering players a range of experiences from pixelated adventures to life simulation. Among the standout titles is Mina the Hollower, a top-down action game from the creators of Shovel Knight. The game draws inspiration from classic Game Boy titles and Castlevania, featuring a whip-wielding protagonist named Mina who explores a gothic world. Players can expect tight combat, a dark atmosphere, and a chiptune soundtrack that evokes the 8-bit era.
Another notable release is Life by You, a life simulation game that positions itself as an alternative to The Sims. Developed by Paradox Tectonic, the game emphasizes open-ended gameplay and modding support. Players can create characters, build homes, and shape their stories without the constraints of traditional objectives. The developers have promised deep customization options and a focus on player agency.
Other games in the roundup include Botany Manor, a puzzle game set in a Victorian-era estate where players cultivate plants to solve mysteries. The game combines gardening with exploration, requiring players to experiment with different conditions to grow rare flora. Meanwhile, Pepper Grinder is a fast-paced platformer that uses a drill mechanic to burrow through terrain, offering a unique twist on the genre.
The list also features Pacific Drive, a survival driving game set in the Pacific Northwest. Players must navigate a treacherous exclusion zone in a station wagon, scavenging for parts and managing their vehicle's condition. The game blends road trip aesthetics with survival horror elements, creating a tense atmosphere.
For fans of narrative-driven experiences, Open Roads offers a story about a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets during a road trip. The game features hand-drawn art and voice acting from Kaitlyn Dever and Keri Russell. Its focus on dialogue and exploration makes it a contemplative choice.
Mina the Hollower is available now on PC via Steam and is also planned for Nintendo Switch. Life by You entered early access on June 4, 2024, exclusively on PC. Botany Manor launched on April 9, 2024, for PC and Nintendo Switch. Pepper Grinder released on March 28, 2024, on PC and Nintendo Switch. Pacific Drive arrived on February 22, 2024, on PC and PlayStation 5. Open Roads came out on March 28, 2024, on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Pricing for these games varies: Mina the Hollower costs $19.99, Life by You is $39.99, Botany Manor is $24.99, Pepper Grinder is $19.99, Pacific Drive is $29.99, and Open Roads is $19.99. All titles are available in digital storefronts like Steam, the Nintendo eShop, and console marketplaces.
These indie releases demonstrate the breadth of creativity in the independent gaming scene, offering alternatives to major studio productions. Players seeking new experiences can find everything from action-platformers to thoughtful simulations in this latest wave of games.
Sony Cuts PlayStation Plus Deluxe Price in Days of Play Campaign
Sony has launched a discount campaign for PlayStation Plus Deluxe subscriptions under its Days of Play event. The price has been reduced following a recent hike.
Sony has introduced a temporary price reduction for its PlayStation Plus Deluxe subscription tier. The discount is part of the company's annual Days of Play promotion, which offers deals on games and services. This move comes shortly after Sony increased prices for PlayStation Plus plans in several regions.
The PlayStation Plus Deluxe tier, which includes access to classic games, game trials, and cloud streaming, now costs less for new and existing subscribers during the campaign period. The exact discounted price varies by region, but the reduction applies to both monthly and annual plans.
Days of Play is a recurring sales event where Sony offers discounts on PlayStation hardware, software, and services. This year's promotion includes the Deluxe subscription price cut alongside deals on popular titles and accessories. The event typically runs for a limited time, encouraging players to take advantage of the offers.
Sony raised PlayStation Plus prices in August 2023, citing the need to align with market conditions and continue delivering high-quality content. The Deluxe tier saw a significant increase at that time, making this discount notable for subscribers who had been paying the higher rate.
The discounted pricing is available to both new members upgrading from lower tiers and existing Deluxe subscribers renewing their plans. The offer does not apply to the Essential or Extra tiers, which remain at their standard prices.
PlayStation Plus Deluxe is available in select markets, including the United States, Europe, and parts of Asia. The Days of Play promotion runs from June 7 to June 17, 2024, giving subscribers a limited window to secure the reduced rate.
Sony has not announced whether the discount will be extended beyond the campaign period. The company encourages users to check the PlayStation Store for region-specific pricing and terms.