Veteran game developer Clint Hocking, known for his work as creative director on Assassin's Creed Hexe and Far Cry 2, has made a swift move into independent development. Just months after his surprise departure from Ubisoft in February, Hocking has announced the founding of Build Machine Games, a studio that aspires to push the boundaries of gaming with emotionally resonant and socially relevant titles.

The launch of Build Machine Games comes on the heels of Hocking's unexpected exit from Ubisoft, where he was overseeing the mysterious Assassin's Creed Hexe. While the circumstances of his departure remain unclear, mirroring the similarly abrupt exit of Assassin's Creed franchise head Marc-Alexis Côté, Hocking's new venture promises a fresh start. Build Machine Games is characterized by Hocking as "lean and fast" yet "bold and ambitious," setting the stage for an innovative approach to game development.

About Clint Hocking and Build Machine Games

Clint Hocking's resume boasts an impressive array of critically acclaimed titles, including:

  • Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory
  • Far Cry 2
  • Watch Dogs: Legion
His tenure at Valve, potentially working on the anticipated Left 4 Dead 3, further underscores his capabilities. This background suggests that Build Machine Games, despite its current small size, is poised to make a significant impact. The studio's mission statement emphasizes empowering developers with autonomy and accountability, backed by agile practices and cutting-edge technology, aiming to "expand the expressive range and power of the medium" with games that are both challenging and emotionally engaging.

"We aspire to expand the expressive range and power of the medium with emotionally resonant, socially relevant games that challenge players' perspectives, pre-conceptions and empathy as much as their reasoning and reflexes."

Clint Hocking

Studio Vision and Hiring

Build Machine Games is currently in the hiring phase, seeking a small number of positions for its inaugural project, with recruitment limited to residents of Canada. This focus on local talent might hint at a more intimate, closely knit development environment, aligning with the "lean and fast" operational model described by Hocking. The studio's values, listed on its website, include:

  • Lead From the Front
  • Always Attack
  • Challenge to Improve
suggesting an emphasis on leadership, proactivity, and continuous growth.

Given the studio's nascent stage, details on its first project are scarce. However, with Hocking at the helm, expectations are high for a title that embodies the studio's mission of crafting games that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. The challenge for Build Machine Games will be to balance its ambitious goals with the realities of being a new, small studio in a competitive industry.

What This Means for Players and the Industry

The establishment of Build Machine Games under Clint Hocking's leadership is a significant development for the gaming community. Players can anticipate projects that, based on Hocking's past work and the studio's mission, will offer deep, emotionally resonant experiences coupled with social relevance. The industry, meanwhile, gains another independent voice, potentially disruptive in its approach to game design and development practices.

Hocking's decision to found Build Machine Games also reflects broader trends in the industry, where experienced developers are increasingly opting for independence to pursue more personal and innovative projects. This shift can lead to more diverse and creative games, benefiting both developers and players alike.

While the wait for the studio's first title will undoubtedly be lengthy, the anticipation is palpable. With its hiring process underway, Build Machine Games is taking its first steps towards realizing Hocking's vision of games that challenge and inspire. The success of this venture will depend on the team's ability to translate its lofty ambitions into a tangible, engaging gaming experience.

Quotes from Clint Hocking

"We aspire to expand the expressive range and power of the medium with emotionally resonant, socially relevant games that challenge players' perspectives, pre-conceptions and empathy as much as their reasoning and reflexes."

Clint Hocking

Describing Build Machine Games as "lean and fast" yet "bold and ambitious".

Clint Hocking

Next Steps and Watching Brief

As Build Machine Games begins its hiring process and embarks on its first project, the gaming community will be watching closely for any glimpses into the studio's debut title. With Hocking's track record and the studio's lofty ambitions, the potential for something groundbreaking is high. For now, fans and hopeful employees in Canada can keep tabs on the studio's website for updates on hiring and project developments.

The road ahead for Build Machine Games will be closely watched, not just for the quality of its games, but also as a case study in independent game development. Success could pave the way for more veterans to pursue similar paths, enriching the industry with fresh perspectives.