Build A Rocket Boy Faces More Layoffs Amidst Reports of Studio Shutdown
Build A Rocket Boy, the studio behind MindsEye and established by Grand Theft Auto veteran Leslie Benzies, is reportedly experiencing further staff reductions, raising questions about its continued operation.
Multiple employees have announced their departure from Build A Rocket Boy. Among those reportedly let go are Head of Audio Stuart Ross, Level Designer Liam Shannon, Release Manager Michaela Emslie, Lead QA Analyst Sandy Greig, QA Analyst Elizabet Tyaneva, and Production QA Analyst Cameron Deaves. This follows previous workforce adjustments at the company.
Last year, Build A Rocket Boy made staff redundant after the troubled release of MindsEye. In May, the studio reportedly dismissed 170 employees. Staff members also protested this summer regarding a company-sponsored fan event.
Adding to concerns about the studio's future, Kotaku reports that sources indicate Build A Rocket Boy is preparing for a complete shutdown.
Principal Talent Acquisition Officer Dan Hawkins mentioned on LinkedIn that he is seeking new employment "along with the rest of my colleagues at Build A Rocket Boy." He stated he is "seeing BARB through till the very end, helping wrap things up here in the HR department."
MindsEye has struggled through its first year. Initially envisioned as part of a larger, creation-focused experience similar to Roblox, its scope was significantly reduced.
A review from Eurogamer described MindsEye as being hampered by a "ridiculous story, inconsistent writing, poorly designed mission scenarios, and utterly atrocious combat," alongside numerous technical problems. Studio executives had previously claimed the game was targeted by unnamed saboteurs.
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