Build a Rocket Boy, the studio behind MindsEye, has announced some difficult news: they are laying off staff. The launch of MindsEye was not well received, leading the team to express their heartbreak over ongoing issues with the game’s performance and optimization.
Sources from IGN suggest that more than 100 developers might be at risk of losing their jobs, although the studio has not confirmed specific numbers. In their statement, they acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of this decision and stressed their commitment to treating affected employees with fairness and respect.
The studio’s statement read, “We are initiating a formal consultation process that may lead to redundancies. We are thankful for our dedicated team and committed to being transparent throughout this process.” Despite these challenges, they expressed hope for the future, mentioning plans to improve the game and strengthen their community.
This situation comes after significant leadership changes, including the departure of the chief legal officer and chief financial officer shortly before MindsEye’s release on June 10. It’s a tough time for the game development industry overall; in 2025 alone, over 2,300 developers have lost their jobs due to cutbacks at various studios, including well-known companies like Ubisoft and EA.
In an industry grappling with tight budgets and high expectations, experts point out that these layoffs are part of a broader trend. Many studios are reassessing their strategies in response to changing market demands and player feedback. For instance, a recent survey highlighted that over 70% of gamers are now prioritizing performance and gameplay quality over flashy graphics. This shift in player expectations puts even more pressure on developers to deliver polished games right from launch.
While the gaming landscape is evolving, lessons from the past can be insightful. In the early days of gaming, many studios faced similar struggles. However, those that adapted and listened to their audiences often thrived. It’s a stark reminder for current developers that player satisfaction is key to longevity in the gaming world.
As Build a Rocket Boy navigates these challenging waters, the focus remains on improving MindsEye and ensuring a brighter future for the company. With the right adjustments, they might still turn things around and build a strong community around their game.