Build a Rocket Boy Severs IO Interactive Ties Amid Explosive Claims of Systematic Corporate Sabotage

Mark Gerhard addresses the end of the IO Interactive deal and claims coordinated corporate sabotage hampered the MindsEye launch.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 1, 2026, 11:18 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from GamesIndustry.biz

Reclaiming Independence in a Volatile Publishing Landscape

The partnership between Build a Rocket Boy and IO Interactive's publishing division has officially dissolved, marking a pivotal shift for the studio led by former Rockstar North executive Mark Gerhard. By reclaiming the rights to MindsEye, the developer intends to take direct control of its commercial destiny, a move Gerhard suggests is essential for an independent entity in the current market. According to Gerhard, the transition to self publishing allows the studio to immediately reprice the action adventure title, aiming to lower the barrier to entry and cultivate a more organic relationship with its community. This strategic pivot follows a turbulent period for the project, which will no longer feature the previously planned collaboration with the Hitman franchise.

Allegations of a Malicious Narrative Campaign

The dissolution of the publishing deal is overshadowed by serious allegations of external interference intended to cripple the game's market performance. Gerhard has spoken out regarding what he describes as a concerted effort by unidentified parties to sabotage MindsEye, claiming that individuals deliberately placed their hands on the scale to manufacture a negative public narrative. According to a studio spokesperson, the company has compiled significant evidence of a coordinated campaign aimed at damaging the firm's reputation and eroding player confidence. This alleged interference reportedly prevented the game from finding its natural audience during its critical early weeks, forcing the studio into a defensive posture.

International Authorities Join Sabotage Investigation

The scope of the alleged sabotage has escalated beyond internal grievances, with Build a Rocket Boy confirming that the matter is now in the hands of law enforcement in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Gerhard stated that the studio has conducted exhaustive investigations over several months, identifying specific parties suspected of involvement in the reputation damage. While the CEO declined to provide further specifics to avoid compromising the legal process, he confirmed that authorities are actively assisting with the probe. The studio expects that formal announcements or arrests may follow as the natural course of justice proceeds regarding the interference.