Next week marks the highly anticipated release of “MindsEye,” the first game developed by Leslie Benzies since his controversial exit from Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive in 2016. As excitement builds around the launch, news has emerged that two top executives from Benzies’ studio, Build a Rocket Boy, have departed the company just days before the game’s debut.
According to reports, Riley Graebner, the chief legal officer, and Paul Bland, the CFO, acknowledged their exits but did not provide specific reasons for their departures. Both expressed pride in their contributions to the company, leaving fans to speculate about the implications of their leaving so close to the release.
In a related point, co-CEO Mark Gerhard of Build a Rocket Boy has commented on the negative reception surrounding “MindsEye,” suggesting there may be a deliberate effort to tarnish the game’s reputation. While he did not name any specific companies, Gerhard hinted at the presence of “bot farms” responsible for pushing negative comments and dislikes online.
Despite comparisons to the Grand Theft Auto franchise, Benzies emphasized that “MindsEye” was never meant to directly compete with his previous work. He explained that through various design iterations, the team aimed to create a unique experience rather than positioning themselves against established giants in the gaming industry.
Scheduled for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on June 10, “MindsEye” represents not just a new chapter for Benzies but also an opportunity for innovation in the gaming landscape. The departure of the executives, while concerning, may lead to new leadership dynamics that could ultimately benefit the game’s reception and studio mission. With hopeful anticipation, many are eager to see how “MindsEye” will unfold within the gaming community.