Build a Rocket Boy, the developer behind the troubled MindsEye, has accused a UK-based company and a network of influencers, journalists, and former employees of orchestrating a $1.1 million smear campaign targeting the studio and its game.
The allegations come as the studio, led by co-CEOs Mark Gerhard and Leslie Benzies, claims to have uncovered evidence of a deliberate effort to damage MindsEye’s reputation. The game, which launched in a critically and technically flawed state, has since received patches and updates, but the developer now argues that external interference played a key role in its struggles.
At the center of the accusations is Ritual Network, a UK-based company specializing in influencer management and video networks. Build a Rocket Boy claims the firm collaborated with three journalists, multiple influencers, and even some internal employees to undermine confidence in MindsEye. The studio’s legal team is reportedly preparing criminal complaints against the alleged perpetrators, with charges including espionage, sabotage, and interference.
Ritual Network has denied any involvement, stating it is unaware of any legal action and has not been provided with evidence supporting the claims. The company called the allegations incorrect and emphasized its role as a creator support platform.
- Build a Rocket Boy claims a $1.1 million campaign was launched to sabotage MindsEye.
- Ritual Network, a UK-based influencer and video network company, is named as the alleged mastermind.
- Three journalists and multiple influencers are accused of participating in the effort.
- Legal action is pending, with charges including espionage and criminal interference.
- The studio plans to use the allegations in an upcoming spy-themed game, reshaped after the cancellation of a collaboration with IO Interactive (the developers of Hitman).
The accusations come amid ongoing turmoil at Build a Rocket Boy. Last year, the studio faced mass layoffs, an open letter from 93 developers criticizing leadership, and reports of internal dysfunction. The BBC previously highlighted concerns over poor management, with employees describing a lack of direction and disregard for their input.
Gerhard has acknowledged past mistakes, including the controversial rollout of employee monitoring software without staff knowledge. He has pledged to remove the software within three months but emphasized that trust within the company remains critical. The studio’s leadership has repeatedly blamed external and internal saboteurs for MindsEye’s failures, though internal documents suggest deep-seated issues within the company itself.
Despite patches and updates, MindsEye* continues to face criticism. While some players have noted improvements in AI character behavior and new missions, many reviews highlight persistent technical issues, poor writing, and a lack of gameplay variety. The game’s struggles have led to refunds for some players, particularly on PlayStation, though the PC version remains available.
The developer’s decision to publicly counterattack—by naming alleged saboteurs and incorporating them into an upcoming game—marks a shift from its previous approach. Rather than focusing solely on legal action, Build a Rocket Boy appears determined to use the controversy as part of its narrative, framing the allegations as both a legal and creative opportunity.
Whether the claims hold up under scrutiny remains to be seen. If proven, they would drastically alter the perception of MindsEye*’s launch and the challenges the studio has faced. If not, the allegations may further tarnish Build a Rocket Boy’s reputation, adding to the skepticism surrounding its ability to recover from one of gaming’s most troubled releases.
