Build a Rocket Boy’s inaugural release, MindsEye, is on track to become 2025’s lowest-scoring title and a commercial disaster. Despite initial excitement fueled by studio founder Leslie Benzies—known for his role in the Grand Theft Auto series—and co-leader Mark Gerhard, early red flags hinted at turmoil behind the scenes. Unimpressive previews, a poorly received launch trailer, and scant details prior to launch eroded player confidence. The studio faced further scrutiny when two executives departed weeks before release, followed by leaked footage showcasing rampant technical flaws and underwhelming mechanics.
Build a Rocket Boy’s assurance that a day-one patch would resolve critical issues proved hollow, as the update failed to deliver. PlayStation even began issuing refunds amid mounting backlash. Benzies accused unnamed saboteurs of undermining the project, echoing claims made during negative preview coverage. However, after layoffs and reports that publisher IO Interactive might exit its publishing division, current and former staff shifted accountability to leadership in a scathing open letter.
The letter, endorsed by 93 employees and alumni via the Game Workers Branch of the IWGB, condemned executive mismanagement: “Years of ignored feedback, unsustainable workloads, and opaque decision-making led to this debacle. The human cost includes burnout, health struggles, and shattered careers.” It outlined systemic failures: poor communication, excessive overtime, and mishandled layoffs, demanding:
- A public apology and severance for affected staff
- Options for impacted employees to receive payment in lieu of notice
- Formal recognition of the IWGB union and process reforms
- Third-party oversight for future layoffs
The letter concluded: “Executives often call us ‘family,’ but families don’t treat each other this way.”
Despite securing $110 million early on and ambitions to rival Grand Theft Auto, Build a Rocket Boy now risks collapse unless drastic changes occur. The studio’s trajectory serves as a cautionary tale of leadership failures overshadowing creative potential.
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