Former Forza Horizon Developers Are Ready to Reveal a New Open-World Racing Game
A new open-world racing game from former Forza Horizon developers is about to be unveiled, and it could be one of the most interesting driving game reveals of the year.
Maverick Games, a studio founded in 2022 by Mike Brown, the former creative director of Forza Horizon 5, has confirmed that its first project will be revealed on June 2. The team includes several developers who previously worked on the Forza Horizon series, giving the studio serious racing game experience right from the start.
The upcoming title is described as a AAA “narrative-led driving experience” set in an open world. That description alone makes it stand out from many modern racing games, which often focus mainly on races, vehicle collecting, online events, and exploration. Maverick Games appears to be aiming for something with a stronger story focus, possibly blending cinematic storytelling with high-speed open-world driving.
Details about the game are still limited. There have been no major leaks, rumors, or early gameplay details, which makes the upcoming reveal even more intriguing. What is known is that the game is being written by Jamie Brittain, suggesting that narrative will play a major role in the experience.
The idea of a story-driven open-world racing game could appeal to fans who miss the more dramatic campaigns seen in some older Need for Speed titles. While the Forza Horizon series includes light story elements and festival progression, its main focus has traditionally been on freedom, racing variety, car culture, and exploration. Maverick Games may be taking a different route by putting characters, plot, and emotional stakes at the center of the driving experience.
The studio’s background also adds to the excitement. Playground Games helped define the modern open-world racing formula with the Forza Horizon franchise, and developers from that world now have the chance to build something fresh under a new banner. With experience in creating massive driving environments, exciting race events, and accessible handling systems, the Maverick Games team has the foundation needed to deliver a strong debut.
Maverick Games was initially backed by Amazon, but the studio later became independent after changes were made to Amazon’s gaming division. That shift appears to have allowed the team to continue pushing forward with its own creative vision.
The timing of the reveal is also notable, as it is scheduled for June 2, just hours before a major gaming showcase. This could help the game attract attention during a busy period for gaming announcements.
For now, fans of open-world racing games will have to wait for the first official look. If Maverick Games can combine the freedom and excitement of open-world driving with a meaningful story, its debut project could become a major new contender in the racing genre.
