Trouble is brewing at Build a Rocket Boy, as nearly 100 current and former employees have come forward accusing the Mindseye developer of mistreating its staff. An open letter, published by the IWGB Game Workers union, claims the studio’s management, including founder Leslie Benzies, has shown “longstanding disrespect” toward its workers.
According to the letter, problems have been simmering for a while. Staff describe a culture of poor communication, sudden workflow changes, and a lack of transparency from leadership. It’s alleged that decisions were made without consulting the teams affected, leaving many feeling unheard and undervalued.
Mindseye launch fallout and forced overtime
In the run-up to Mindseye’s release, the studio reportedly enforced mandatory overtime, eight extra hours a week for four months straight. Although staff were promised Time Off In Lieu, many say they’ve been unable to use it because of ongoing “high-priority” demands even after launch.
The union also criticised how layoffs were handled following Mindseye’s disastrous debut. Around 250 to 300 employees were reportedly let go, with some receiving incorrect information about their teams and notice periods, an error that could amount to wrongful dismissal.
The signatories are calling for a public apology, fair compensation for those affected, and real reform inside the company. Their demands include recognising the IWGB as a union, bringing in external oversight for redundancies, and offering employees the choice between working their notice or taking payment instead.
The letter ends on a sharp note aimed at Benzies and co-CEO Mark Gerhard: “You often refer to your employees as ‘family’. But we ask you to consider, is this really how you treat your own?”
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