Build a Rocket Boy has unveiled a "reset" strategy as part of its latest update and marketing initiative for MindsEye
Build a Rocket Boy has initiated a new stage in the development of its challenging open-world game, MindsEye. This move represents the studio's initial significant PR effort since the game launched in June. However, it coincides with new controversy surrounding the studio's founder.
According to a statement from the studio, MindsEye has received its largest update since launch, aligning with the studio's quality objectives and paving the way for future content expansions. This update is expected to rebrand the game in 2026. The trailer for the update is titled "MindsEye - More Than It Seems".
The game encountered a poor reception initially, with players encountering bugs and performance issues, leading to the cancellation of sponsored streams at the last moment and receiving negative reviews. The developer had to reduce its staff but continued releasing updates, with the latest one being the seventh. In November, a "free starter pack" trial was made available across all platforms.
Mark Gerhard, the company's CEO and CTO, highlighted the update as "a major advancement for MindsEye and our team." He promised "substantial improvements in combat and gameplay" in future updates. Gerhard added that "new content is under development, and we’re committed to consistent and meaningful enhancements."
Looking ahead, the studio plans to "unveil a new expansion with end-game content and enhanced world exploration" soon. Additionally, they are adding a multiplayer feature to their ARCADIA platform, which will include new missions monthly.
The announcement occurs shortly after the studio's founder, Leslie Benzies, addressed allegations in the Epstein files released by the US Justice Department. An email from a person claiming to be a victim of Jeffrey Epstein accused Benzies of sexual misconduct, which he denied in a statement to Kotaku.
"These claims are false. I was involved in a 3-month consensual relationship with the individual, and I have never encountered Jeffrey Epstein, nor visited any of his properties or traveled on his plane. Any indication otherwise is misleading," Benzies' statement asserted.
Recently, Build a Rocket Boy's CEO, Mark Gerhard, accused media figures of "manipulation and interference" against the company, referencing a YouTuber who he asked to remove content regarding Benzies, and termed these actions as part of a "media manipulation cabal." Gerhard alleged earlier that pre-launch criticism was "financially supported," and the BBC has cited Benzies stating that there were "internal and external" attempts to undermine the game's launch and there was an initiative to eliminate "internal saboteurs."
While Benzies is absent from the latest update’s press release, a representative verified to GamesIndustry.biz that he continues his role at the company.