In July this year, workers at Build a Rocket Boy, a video game studio in Edinburgh, were called to an all-staff meeting. Their first-ever game, a sci-fi adventure called MindsEye, had been released three weeks earlier - and it had been a total disaster. Critics and players called it 'broken', 'buggy', and 'the worst game of 2025'. Addressing staff via video link, the company's boss, Leslie Benzies, assured them there was a plan to get things back on track and said the negativity they'd seen was 'uncalled for'. He pivoted, alleging 'internal and external' forces had been working to scupper the MindsEye launch, prompting accusations of conspiracy from employees. Meanwhile, many feel the signs of mismanagement were evident from the start, leading to a chaotic production process. After the launch on June 10, 2025, negative reviews flooded in, showcasing performance issues and bugs. With over 250 layoffs announced shortly after, the studio’s environment has become a focal point of concern for the industry, highlighting the impact of poor leadership on creative work.
Disaster Strikes: The Rise and Fall of MindsEye
Disaster Strikes: The Rise and Fall of MindsEye
Once hailed as the next big thing in gaming, MindsEye's disastrous launch has left its creators in turmoil. Explore the fallout from shocking reviews and studio layoffs at Build a Rocket Boy.
Build a Rocket Boy, known for its heritage from the creators of Grand Theft Auto, faced ruin after the release of MindsEye, a game criticized for its numerous bugs and glitches. Following harsh public and critical reception, over 250 staff were laid off amidst allegations of mismanagement and a toxic workplace environment. Despite attempts by studio head Leslie Benzies to deflect blame on 'saboteurs,' many employees are skeptical about the studio's future, as they struggle with mental fatigue and doubts over the game's recovery.
