Build A Rocket Boy Studio Faces Closure Following Debut Game's Flop

Edinburgh-based Build A Rocket Boy (Barb), a video game studio established by former Grand Theft Auto developer Leslie Benzies, is facing closure after its debut game, MindsEye, was met with widespread criticism and poor player reception following its June 2025 release. The studio has entered administration, a process that could lead to its sale or shutdown.

MindsEye, an action-adventure title, received a barrage of negative reviews, with some critics and players labeling it among the worst games of the year. Former employees have spoken out about a chaotic development process, citing a lack of clear direction and accusing studio leadership of mismanagement. These issues reportedly contributed to significant staff reductions, with 250 to 300 employees laid off shortly after the game's launch.

Leslie Benzies, who co-founded Rockstar Games and was a key figure in the development of the Grand Theft Auto series, established Barb in 2016. This followed his departure from Rockstar under contentious circumstances related to unpaid royalties. The studio initially began developing a multiplayer role-playing game titled Everywhere before shifting its focus to MindsEye.

Following the game's troubled release, Benzies reportedly blamed "internal and external" forces for hindering the game's launch and vowed to identify "saboteurs" within the company. Barb acknowledged responsibility for the game's initial release, stating in a statement that "The version of the game that was released did not reflect the experience our community deserved." Despite subsequent efforts with updates and fixes, the company has struggled to attract a larger player base to MindsEye. Reports indicate that remaining staff have also been let go in recent weeks.

Financial documents for Barb, up to September 2025, revealed a loss of £36.2 million and net assets of £10.5 million. The studio's entry into administration signifies its inability to meet financial obligations. During administration, an independent administrator takes control of the company's assets and operations, aiming to preserve the business, potentially find a new owner, and ensure creditors are repaid as much as possible, often through the sale of company assets.