Former Forza Horizon execs open 'AAA' studio Maverick Games

The developer already has a project in progress.

Even more video game veterans are starting a new studio after leaving an industry heavyweight. Senior executives from Forza Horizon creator Playground Games established Maverick Games, a development house in Leamington Spak, UK, dedicated to 'AAA' titles. Gamesindustry.biz notes that the studio is led by former Horizon creative director Mike Brown, while executive producer Tom Butcher, technical lead Matt Craven, content director Gareth Harwood and sound manager Fraser Strachan.

Art director for the 10-person team is Ben Penrose, who recently worked at Vampire the Masquerade: Blood Hunt developer Sharkmob, but also has experience at Playground . Elly Marshall, former EA Experience Director, is in charge of experience and interface development. Harinder Sangha, veteran of Sega and Sumo, is the head of operations.

Maverick hasn't shared much about his debut project, but says it will be an open-world title for consoles and PC. Brown suggests gaming will be a response to how people entertain themselves in the modern age — think subscription services and TikTok. That means games that are continually engaging without being repetitive, says Brown.

As with similar launches, Maverick hopes to move away from "safe" projects. Brown tells GI.biz that he wants to encourage "creative risk," but also wants to avoid "toxic" egos that can damage the team. Sangha hopes the company can help improve diversity in the video game industry. It is about shaking up the existing formula which, although reliable, does not allow a great variety.

Brown and Sangha said they left their former employers on good terms. However, they and Maverick are part of a larger trend of top game developers going independent after dealing with creative frustration (or just plain boredom) at major studios. Simply put, big brands can't assume their top talent will stay.

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