Build a Rocket Boy Reportedly Shuts Down After Layoffs

Game developer Build a Rocket Boy is reportedly shutting down following a new wave of staff redundancies. The potential closure emerged through LinkedIn posts from several employees, including release manager Michaela Emslie and principal talent acquisition partner Dan Hawkins. Hawkins indicated he would be helping to wrap up operations within the HR department, though a source told IGN the company might not be fully dissolved even if all staff are let go.

The studio has faced instability since the June 2025 launch of MindsEye, which was plagued by bugs and panned by critics. Following the launch, the studio reportedly cut approximately 300 developers and later ended its publishing agreement with IOI Partners in March. Co-CEO Leslie Benzies previously attributed the game's failure to corporate sabotage.

Labor tensions have further strained the studio. The IWGB Games Worker Union has filed legal claims against the company over the use of surveillance software and data privacy violations. Former staff previously protested outside the studio's Edinburgh office in July to voice concerns over mismanagement and redundancy handling.