The video game developer Build A Rocket Boy, created by ex-Grand Theft Auto producer Leslie Benzies and recognized for its work on MindsEye, is reportedly undergoing severe challenges. Numerous team members have disclosed online that they are losing their jobs, while insider accounts indicate the company could be nearing a complete shutdown.
Several department leaders and senior figures have verified their exits from the company, fueling concerns regarding the firm’s prospects.
Studio Faces Heavy Layoffs and Unrest
Information shared by those leaving the company illuminates the extent of the recent workforce reduction. Among those departing are Stuart Ross (head of audio), Liam Shannon (level designer), Michaela Emslie (release manager), Sandy Greig (lead QA analyst), Elizabet Tyaneva (QA analyst), and Cameron Deaves (production QA analyst), as well as other staff members. Former employees have used platforms like LinkedIn to discuss these developments. One example, principal talent acquisition officer Dan Hawkins, revealed he is searching for new roles and described “seeing BARB through till the very end, helping wrap things up here in the HR department.”
This substantial layoff round comes after earlier job reductions: following a troubled launch of MindsEye last year, the studio reportedly saw an unspecified number of layoffs. In May, further news surfaced about an additional 170 positions eliminated. Internal issues continued this summer when employees protested management’s decision to prioritize resources toward a fan event amid ongoing turmoil within the studio.
Speculation Surrounds Studio’s Fate and Game Setbacks
According to people familiar with the situation, Build A Rocket Boy could be preparing to cease operations. The company has yet to release an official statement, intensifying doubts and speculation about its continuity and the destiny of its current projects.
The turmoil escalated due to a disastrous debut year for MindsEye, the developer’s premiere title. Originally planned as part of Everything, an ambitious platform meant to rival Roblox with its customizable world, the scope of MindsEye was dramatically scaled back before it went live. Critics did not respond favorably to the release, highlighting issues like “a ridiculous story, inconsistent writing, poorly designed mission scenarios, and utterly atrocious combat.” On top of that, serious technical flaws plagued the game; company leaders even suggested in interviews that sabotage by unnamed sources contributed to what they described as “the worst launch in history.”
Future of Build A Rocket Boy Remains Unclear
With prominent staff resignations and statements describing the final stages of business, uncertainty clouds Build A Rocket Boy’s future. A formal announcement about the company’s direction has not yet been made. The wider industry continues to await definitive word from the studio during this tumultuous time.