Clint Hocking, a distinguished figure in the gaming industry, has recently founded his own independent studio, Build Machine Games, marking a new chapter in his career after a notable tenure at Ubisoft. This move follows his unexpected exit from the multinational video game company, where he was involved in the development of the highly anticipated 'Assassin's Creed Hexe'. His new endeavor promises to bring a fresh perspective to game creation, focusing on narratives that challenge and engage players on a deeper level.
Forging a New Path: Hocking's Visionary Studio Emerges
The Genesis of Build Machine Games: A "Lean and Fast" Approach
Clint Hocking, celebrated for his significant contributions to titles like "Far Cry 2" and the unreleased "Assassin's Creed Hexe," has unveiled his new game development company, Build Machine Games. Following his departure from Ubisoft, Hocking announced the formation of his studio on LinkedIn, characterizing it as both "lean and fast" yet "bold and ambitious."
Aspirational Goals and Core Principles for Gaming Innovation
The studio's foundational philosophy, as articulated by Hocking, is to broaden the artistic scope of interactive entertainment. They aim to craft games that evoke strong emotions, address pertinent social issues, and stimulate players' introspection and empathy, alongside their cognitive abilities and reflexes. The official website for Build Machine Games further details its values, which include leadership, relentless pursuit of excellence, and continuous improvement, underscoring a commitment to empowering developers with autonomy and leveraging cutting-edge technology for inspiring game design.
Hocking's Illustrious Career and Recent Ubisoft Departure
Hocking's professional background is extensive, featuring roles as a level designer and scriptwriter for the original "Splinter Cell," and creative director for "Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory," "Far Cry 2," "Crucible," and "Watch Dogs: Legion." His impressive resume also includes a period at Valve, hinting at involvement in unannounced projects. His recent, abrupt departure from Ubisoft, where he was creative director for "Assassin's Creed Hexe," mirrors the earlier exit of "Assassin's Creed" franchise head Marc-Alexis Côté, which culminated in a lawsuit against Ubisoft. While there are no indications of similar disputes in Hocking's case, his departure suggests a significant strategic shift within Ubisoft's development teams.
The Future Landscape: New Opportunities and Canadian Talent
Despite the somewhat generic corporate language on the Build Machine Games website, Hocking's proven track record instills confidence in the potential of his new studio. Build Machine Games is actively recruiting for a select number of positions to commence work on its inaugural prototype. Notably, the studio is exclusively hiring Canadian residents, suggesting a commitment to fostering local talent and potentially hinting at a unique creative direction for their upcoming projects.
