Build a Rocket Boy Layoffs Update 2026: MindsEye Staff Reductions
- Game: MindsEye
- Developer: Build a Rocket Boy
- Reported Staff Reductions: Approximately 170 employees
- Estimated Remaining Staff: ~80 employees
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X
Build a Rocket Boy, the developer behind the shooter and adventure title MindsEye, has reportedly implemented a significant round of staff reductions in 2026. Following these latest reports, the studio's workforce is estimated to have shrunk to approximately 80 employees, down from a previous headcount of roughly 250. This development marks the third instance of workforce downsizing at the company within the past year, as the studio navigates the aftermath of its June 2025 release.
Understanding the Build a Rocket Boy Layoffs Update 2026
The recent reports of job losses at the developer of MindsEye have surfaced through multiple channels, including industry reports and public statements from former employees. While the studio has not issued an official confirmation regarding the specific figures, numerous staff members have utilized professional networking platforms to announce their departures. These announcements include technical level designers, QA analysts, and audio designers who confirmed their roles were ending in late May 2026.
This situation follows a pattern of instability that has characterized the studio's operations since the launch of MindsEye. In previous communications, CEO Mark Gerhard cited the difficult market performance and the long-term impact of the game's initial release as primary drivers for the necessity of reducing the studio's size. For more background on how these industry shifts affect developers, see our coverage of industry news.
The Role of the IWGB Union in Staff Departure News 2026
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has provided context regarding these recent events. Kirby Lipardo, an IWGB member and former employee at the studio, stated that while rumors of chaos are common, the current departures appear to be the final phase of the redundancies first announced in March 2026. According to Lipardo, many staff members were previously locked out of their work accounts on the day their employment was terminated, though some colleagues had remained on staff for a short period before the current conclusion of their tenure.
The union is currently involved in a legal dispute with the company regarding previous rounds of layoffs. The legal claim alleges that the studio failed to meet collective consultation obligations, engaged in procedural unfairness, and participated in unlawful blacklisting. The union asserts that these actions have caused significant human cost and impacted the community within the workplace. You can find further updates on labor relations in our related label for developer relations.
What is the Current Status of MindsEye Developer Layoffs?
The studio is currently operating with a significantly smaller team than it held at the start of 2026. The shift from a staff of 250 to approximately 80 people represents a major transition for the company as it maintains the live services for MindsEye. The game, which released on June 10, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X, has been the subject of internal controversy, with management reportedly investigating alleged "internal saboteurs" following the game's initial reception.
The following table summarizes the reported timeline of staff reductions at the studio over the past year:
| Period | Reported Context |
|---|---|
| Early 2025 | Initial release of MindsEye; launch difficulties reported. |
| March 2026 | Initial announcement of significant workforce redundancies. |
| May 2026 | Reported third round of layoffs affecting approximately 170 staff. |
Management Response and Internal Atmosphere
The atmosphere within the studio has been described by former employees as one of paranoia and intimidation. Reports from staff indicate that management has focused heavily on identifying individuals responsible for alleged sabotage, which some employees feel has distracted from the core mission of improving the game experience for players. As we continue to track these developments at In Game News, we are monitoring how these internal changes impact the future development cycle of MindsEye.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of MindsEye developer layoffs?
Build a Rocket Boy has reportedly reduced its workforce by approximately 170 staff members, leaving the studio with about 80 employees.
Are there new redundancies at MindsEye studio in 2026?
While reports indicate further departures, the IWGB union suggests these are likely the final stages of a redundancy process initiated in March 2026.
What has the IWGB union said about Build a Rocket Boy job cuts?
The IWGB union is currently pursuing legal action against Build a Rocket Boy, alleging breaches of consultation obligations and unfair dismissal practices.