Build a Rocket Boy, the studio behind the GTA-like game MindsEye, is permanently closing following multiple rounds of layoffs and workplace controversies including crunch accusations and unlawful employee monitoring. Multiple employees confirmed the shutdown on LinkedIn, with the studio winding down operations while facing ongoing scrutiny from the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain over worker treatment.
Bulkhead CEO Joe Brammer stated the studio deliberately avoids hiring people who publicly criticize crunch, screening social media during recruitment. While acknowledging crunch is inevitable in game development, Brammer emphasized Bulkhead expects hard work and offers share bonuses to compensate, though not all employees receive these benefits.