Build A Rocket Boy, the gaming studio behind MindsEye and founded by Leslie Benzies, is facing another wave of layoffs, leaving its future in doubt. This follows previous job cuts and a controversial launch of their game.
Key Personnel Departures
Several more employees have announced their departure from the company. Among those exiting are Stuart Ross, the head of audio, level designer Liam Shannon, release manager Michaela Emslie, lead QA analyst Sandy Greig, QA analyst Elizabet Tyaneva, and production QA analyst Cameron Deaves. This adds to growing concerns about the studio’s stability.
Ongoing Challenges and Layoffs
This is not the first time Build A Rocket Boy has opted for layoffs. In the past, the studio dismissively cut staff after the problematic launch of MindsEye, with an unspecified number of employees being laid off last year. In May of this year, reports suggested 170 additional layoffs took place. Discontent among employees was highlighted this summer when remaining staff staged a protest against an extravagant fan event sponsored by the studio.
Speculation on Future Operations
The latest round of layoffs has fueled speculation about the studio’s long-term viability, with some sources suggesting a potential shutdown. Dan Hawkins, principal talent acquisition officer, hinted at a possible closure in a LinkedIn post, stating he is seeking new opportunities along with his colleagues as he helps conclude operations in his department.
MindsEye’s Troubled Launch
MindsEye struggled during its first year, initially marketed as part of a larger, more ambitious project resembling a vast interactive experience, only to have its scope significantly reduced. Criticism of the game’s narrative and design was harsh, with reviewers highlighting its story flaws, erratic writing, poorly structured missions, and inferior combat mechanics. Technical problems further compounded these issues, though studio leaders attributed some troubles to alleged sabotage.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.