The CEO of Build a Rocket Boy addresses the conclusion of their publishing contract with IOI Partners

Mark Gerhard, CEO of Build a Rocket Boy, discussed the termination of the company's publishing deal with IOI Partners, emphasizing that maintaining independence offers them more control over their direction. This decision allows Build a Rocket Boy to manage the publication of MindsEye, giving them the flexibility to adjust the game's pricing for wider accessibility.

Gerhard highlighted to GamesBeat the benefits of a closer relationship with their audience, which involves investing in the game's development and community interaction.

The dissolution of the partnership with IO Interactive's publishing arm, which occurred last month, means the anticipated crossover between Hitman and MindsEye will not advance as planned. Instead, reports from Insider Gaming in February indicated a new mission incorporating details of the alleged sabotage during MindsEye's debut is being developed.

While not directly confirmed by Gerhard, the multiplayer update will feature a mission exposing some of this alleged sabotage. Over months of investigation, parties involved were identified, and authorities in the UK and US are now involved.

Gerhard remarked on the efforts to harm the game’s launch by creating negative narratives, hindering its ability to reach its audience and evolve as expected.

A statement from a Build a Rocket Boy spokesperson to GamesIndustry.biz stressed possession of proof of an orchestrated attempt to damage the studio’s reputation and undermine the credibility of MindsEye, prompting legal responses.

Furthermore, Gerhard confirmed ongoing layoffs, with a reduction of staff occurring two weeks ago following earlier cuts in March. These measures were prompted by the challenging release of MindsEye, necessitating difficult decisions to sustain the company and its projects.