Clint Hocking's New Studio: Build Machine Games – Q&A on His Exit from Ubisoft and Future Plans

Clint Hocking, the veteran game developer behind titles like Far Cry 2 and the creative director of the upcoming Assassin's Creed Hexe, has launched a new independent studio called Build Machine Games. This move comes just months after his unexpected departure from Ubisoft in February 2024. Hocking describes the studio as “lean, fast, bold, and ambitious,” with a mission to create emotionally resonant, socially relevant games. Below, we dive into the details of his new venture, his impressive career, and the circumstances surrounding his exit.

What is Build Machine Games and who founded it?

Founded by Clint Hocking, Build Machine Games is a new game development studio based in Canada. Hocking announced the studio on LinkedIn, emphasizing its “lean and fast” structure while aiming to be “bold and ambitious.” The studio's website lists core values such as “Lead From the Front,” “Always Attack,” and “Challenge to Improve.” Its mission statement declares a commitment to “making great games that exceed expectations and elevate the form” by empowering developers with autonomy and accountability. While some might find the language corporate, Hocking's track record gives these ambitions weight.

What kind of games does Build Machine Games aim to create?

The studio aspires to “expand the expressive range and power of the medium with emotionally resonant, socially relevant games.” According to Hocking, these games should “challenge players' perspectives, pre-conceptions, and empathy as much as their reasoning and reflexes.” This suggests a focus on narrative-driven experiences that provoke thought and emotional engagement, similar to Hocking's work on Far Cry 2, which was praised for its systemic storytelling and moral ambiguity. The studio is currently in its early stages, hiring for a small number of positions to work on its first prototype.

Who is Clint Hocking and what is his background in game development?

Clint Hocking is a highly respected game developer with over two decades of experience. He started as a level designer and scriptwriter on the original Splinter Cell and later served as creative director on Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory, Far Cry 2, Crucible (for Amazon Game Studios), and Watch Dogs: Legion. He also spent time at Valve, where he may have worked on the unreleased Left 4 Dead 3. His portfolio demonstrates a knack for innovative game design and systemic mechanics. Notably, Far Cry 2 remains a cult classic for its emergent gameplay and unconventional narrative.

Why did Clint Hocking leave Ubisoft and what was he working on there?

Hocking was the creative director for Assassin's Creed Hexe, a mysterious entry in the franchise with supernatural themes, announced in 2022. He left Ubisoft in February 2024 without public warning. Ubisoft thanked him for his contributions but offered no specific reason for his departure. Industry insiders speculate a larger shakeup at Ubisoft, as franchise head Marc-Alexis Côté had also left suddenly a few months earlier and later sued the company, alleging he was forced out. While Hocking's exit has not sparked similar litigation, it aligns with a period of instability at the publisher.

What are the immediate plans for Build Machine Games?

Currently, Build Machine Games is in the prototype phase. The studio is hiring for a “small number” of positions, but only for residents of Canada. Hocking has not revealed specific project details, but given his history, fans can expect a focus on systemic gameplay, player agency, and narrative depth. The studio's lean structure suggests a smaller, more agile team compared to his previous AAA environment. Those interested can follow updates on the official website or LinkedIn, but concrete announcements are likely months away.

How does Hocking's departure compare to other Ubisoft exits?

Hocking's exit mirrors that of Assassin's Creed franchise head Marc-Alexis Côté, who left in late 2023 and later sued Ubisoft. Both departures were sudden and marked the end of key leadership roles. However, Hocking's split appears amicable—Ubisoft wished him well, and he has made no public accusations. This contrasts with Côté's allegations of being forced out. Nonetheless, the timing suggests a broader restructuring at Ubisoft, possibly linked to shifting company priorities or internal conflicts. For now, Hocking seems focused on his new independent venture, free from corporate constraints.