The VR community is reeling as news breaks of yet another studio closure. Build a Rocket Boy (BARB), developer of the ambitious VR title MindsEye, appears to be shutting down its operations after a tumultuous few years. According to reports from multiple sources, including social media posts from departing staff members, the studio is ceasing production and laying off employees.
The situation at BARB has been marred by controversy since the launch of MindsEye in June 2025. The game’s troubled debut was followed by allegations of mismanagement, with nearly 100 developers signing an open letter detailing their concerns. The team had already undergone multiple rounds of job cuts before IOI Partners, a division of Hitman developer IO Interactive, stepped down as publisher earlier this year.
Now, it seems that the studio is facing its final curtain call. Staff members have taken to social media to announce their departures, with some hinting at a planned closure. A principal talent acquisition partner and HR operations specialist posted on LinkedIn, stating, “I’ll be seeing BARB through till the very end, helping wrap things up” in the HR department. This sentiment was echoed by other departing employees, who expressed their gratitude for the experience but made it clear that they were moving on.
The MindsEye project had shown promise, with its innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive VR world. However, the studio’s struggles have been well-documented, with concerns raised over data privacy violations, surveillance software on work devices, and alleged misconduct by management. The situation has sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of game developers and the importance of fair working conditions.
This latest development raises questions about the long-term viability of ambitious VR projects and the challenges faced by studios attempting to push the boundaries of immersive technology. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that successful VR experiences require not only innovative gameplay but also robust business models and a supportive studio environment.
For VR enthusiasts, this news may come as a disappointment, especially given the promising potential of MindsEye. However, it also highlights the importance of supporting studios that prioritize developer well-being and fair working conditions. As the industry continues to grow and mature, it’s essential for players to be aware of these issues and to demand better from their favorite developers.
In the future, we may see a shift towards more sustainable business models and a greater emphasis on developer welfare within the VR industry. This could lead to more innovative projects being greenlit, with studios prioritizing long-term success over short-term gains. As the VR landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the community will be watching closely as studios adapt and innovate in response to these challenges.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-09-16