A Different Step for MindsEye
IOI Partners has officially stepped away from publishing MindsEye, transferring full publishing rights and responsibilities to developer Build A Rocket Boy. The change took effect on March 16, 2026, with IOI confirming it will only remain involved where necessary to complete the transition. As part of this shift, a planned crossover event with Hitman: World of Assassination has also been scrapped.
The move follows a turbulent period for MindsEye, a project led by Leslie Benzies, known for his work on the Grand Theft Auto series. Initially envisioned as part of the ambitious Everywhere platform, the game eventually launched as a standalone title in 2025 after those broader plans failed to materialize. Despite early anticipation, MindsEye struggled critically and commercially, earning low review scores and failing to build a steady player base.
Since launch, Build A Rocket Boy has released multiple patches aimed at improving performance and fixing bugs. A major update last month introduced further refinements, including improved AI behavior, though significant new content has yet to arrive as the studio focuses on stabilizing the experience.
The situation has also created some controversy. Co-CEO Mark Gerhard has alleged coordinated efforts to damage the game’s reputation, claims that IOI has denied. Meanwhile, the studio has faced layoffs and internal backlash, including an open letter from over 90 employees calling for better treatment and compensation.
Reflecting on the outcome, IOI CEO Hakan Abrak acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Well, that was definitely tough, right?”, acknowledging that the game fell short of expectations.