Build a Rocket Boy, the studio behind the critically panned game MindsEye, is reportedly closing after multiple rounds of layoffs. Employees including Dan Hawkins, a principal talent acquisition partner, and Michaela Emslie, a release manager, have shared on LinkedIn that their time at the company is ending. Hawkins stated he would 'see BARB through till the very end, helping wrap things up here in the HR department,' suggesting the studio is winding down permanently.
The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has expressed solidarity with affected workers, citing long-standing issues with management, including allegations of unlawful employee monitoring and crunch. IWGB vice-chair Ben Newbon stated the union remains committed to addressing 'management’s treatment of workers' and advocating for industry reforms, though they declined further comment on the studio's closure.
While some reports suggest the studio may not be formally dissolved despite staff reductions, the UK Companies House still lists Build a Rocket Boy LTD as an active business. Employees have cited ongoing challenges, including a troubled 2025 launch of MindsEye and subsequent layoffs, as well as disputes over privacy violations and workplace conditions. The studio has not publicly commented on the extent of the layoffs or closure.