Build A Rocket Boy Studio Faces Shutdown After MindsEye Debacle
Employees announce departures as troubled game developer reportedly closes operations.
1Studio closure confirmed
Multiple Build A Rocket Boy employees have publicly announced their departures on LinkedIn, with HR personnel confirming they're helping wrap up operations. The studio developed the controversial action-adventure game MindsEye, which faced significant criticism at launch. Principal talent acquisition partner Dan Hawkins' emotional post about being 'open to work' strongly suggests complete studio closure. This follows months of turmoil after MindsEye's disastrous June 2025 debut.
2Troubled game launch
MindsEye's June 2025 release was plagued with technical issues so severe that PlayStation reportedly issued refunds to dissatisfied players. The game's initial bug-riddled state set off a chain reaction of problems for BARB. Soon after launch, the studio conducted layoffs while founder Leslie Benzies (former GTA producer) controversially blamed 'saboteurs' both inside and outside the company for the game's failures. These claims were never substantiated.
3Failed revival attempts
BARB attempted to salvage MindsEye with a spring expansion that promised to reveal evidence of the alleged conspiracy against the game. However, the mission added little value and was criticized as uninspired. A summer update introducing multiplayer and a Rocket League-style soccer mode also failed to revive the game's fortunes. These efforts came after BARB became the sole publisher in March following their split with IOI Partners.
4Management controversies
Earlier this year, BARB faced serious allegations of employee surveillance. The IWGB Game Workers Union reported management installed Teramind software without consent, allegedly recording workers in their homes. These practices went beyond standard productivity monitoring, raising ethical concerns. The studio conducted additional layoffs in March and May amid these controversies, further destabilizing operations.
5Industry context
The gaming industry has seen increasing studio closures post-pandemic, particularly among mid-sized developers. BARB's case highlights the risks of high-profile failures in an increasingly competitive market. With development costs rising and player expectations higher than ever, studios face intense pressure to deliver successful launches. The situation also reflects ongoing tensions around labor practices in game development.
6Founder's background
BARB was founded by Leslie Benzies, former president of Rockstar North and producer on the Grand Theft Auto series. His high-profile background initially generated significant buzz for MindsEye. However, the game's failure and subsequent studio collapse mark a dramatic fall from grace for the industry veteran. Benzies' controversial 'saboteurs' comments during the crisis drew criticism from industry observers.
7Employee impact
The closure affects all BARB staff, with LinkedIn posts suggesting no one will remain after wind-down operations complete. The gaming industry's current contraction makes finding new positions challenging for affected employees. Many are publicly signaling their availability, with some likely relocating or transitioning to other tech sectors. The situation underscores the volatility of game development careers.
8Broader implications
BARB's collapse serves as a cautionary tale about overambitious projects and management missteps in game development. It highlights how quickly a single failed title can unravel an entire studio, especially when combined with labor disputes. The case may prompt closer scrutiny of working conditions and project viability assessments across the industry as investors grow more risk-averse.
Original article: Engadget — Build A Rocket Boy Studio Faces Shutdown After MindsEye Debacle