IO Interactive has terminated its publishing agreement with Build a Rocket Boy for the development of MindsEye

MindsEye game image — Image credit: Build a Rocket Boy

The agreement between IOI Partners, the publishing arm of IO Interactive, and Build a Rocket Boy (BARB) regarding the game MindsEye has concluded. BARB now retains exclusive publishing duties for the title to maintain consistency for the MindsEye community and associated partners. Efforts are underway to ensure a smooth handover in the upcoming weeks.

The cessation of the partnership means the collaboration between the creators of Hitman and MindsEye will not proceed. However, BARB expressed intentions to collaborate with partners on other future endeavors.

This partnership was IO Interactive's initial venture into publishing third-party titles, supplying BARB with marketing, distribution, localization, and customer support services for MindsEye, excluding financial backing. IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak remarked to GamesIndustry.biz after the agreement was finalized in October 2024 that while they are excited about the collaboration, turning into a major publishing entity instantly was not their goal.

Despite initial enthusiasm, MindsEye faced a challenging debut, receiving criticism due to performance issues and bugs. As a result, BARB decided to call off sponsored marketing streams at the last moment. To address these drawbacks, BARB announced a new developmental phase to enhance the game.

Regarding the rocky launch, Abrak commented to IGN last September that the outcome was disappointing for both BARB and IOI Partners. Efforts are ongoing to restore player trust, leveraging the abundant potential and content still in development.

Earlier this month, BARB confirmed additional layoffs, citing a "difficult period" in the industry coupled with allegations of corporate sabotage. CEO Mark Gerhard acknowledged the scenario while noting unforeseen challenges and industry competition as factors impacting the launch period. Consequently, further staff reductions were deemed necessary to safeguard the company's future and ongoing projects.