Build a Rocket Boy, the studio behind the 2025 open-world game MindsEye, claims an organized effort targeted the game's reputation following its troubled launch. In leaked internal video footage, co-CEO Mark Gerhard accused Ritual Network, a UK-based social media management company, of orchestrating what he called a $1 million smear campaign. Gerhard also named content creator Cyber Boi as allegedly participating in the effort.
The leaked footage shows Gerhard describing Ritual Network as "a bunch of gangsters" during an internal meeting. The video references potential legal actions, including accusations of espionage, sabotage, and criminal interference. The footage also reveals that the studio installed cybersecurity software called Teramind on employee systems without advance notice.
Ritual Network's profile raises questions
Ritual Network's actual business profile doesn't align with the scale of Gerhard's accusations. The company operates out of Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, with fewer than 20 employees. Financial records from February 2025 show net current assets of roughly £800,000, several months before MindsEye launched — a figure that falls short of the $1 million campaign Gerhard described. Ritual Network has publicly denied involvement and says it hasn't been shown evidence supporting the claims.
Studio plans to use controversy as game content
The leaked discussion shows Gerhard suggesting the studio will incorporate the names of those allegedly involved into future MindsEye missions. "Given this has happened to us, I'm gonna own this narrative," he said, describing plans to feature these figures in an upcoming spy-themed mission. Build a Rocket Boy confirmed it's working with legal counsel to investigate the matter, stating that evidence exists of a coordinated campaign designed to undermine confidence in the game.
MindsEye struggles to recover from launch
Build a Rocket Boy is simultaneously trying to salvage MindsEye after a rough 2025 launch. A surprise update on February 4 was framed as a "reset for the brand and the title," intended to mark the start of a "new era" for the game. Despite these efforts, MindsEye currently sits below 50 percent positive reviews on Steam and reports only 40 concurrent players. The studio is juggling both public relations damage control and ongoing development work to rebuild the game's player base.
Industry watches legal developments
The accusations have caught attention in the gaming community, as claims of targeted campaigns against games remain uncommon but potentially serious. Analysts note that while internal disputes or leaks can shape public perception, the availability of evidence and official confirmation typically determine whether legal or financial consequences follow. Ritual Network maintains its position of non-involvement and hasn't responded to additional inquiries.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is MindsEye?
MindsEye is a 2025 open-world game developed by Build a Rocket Boy. The game faced critical and commercial challenges following its launch.
Who is Build a Rocket Boy?
Build a Rocket Boy is the studio behind MindsEye, with Mark Gerhard serving as co-CEO. The studio focuses on open-world and experimental game projects.
What is Ritual Network?
Ritual Network is a UK-based YouTube and TikTok management company. It has been named in leaked internal footage by Build a Rocket Boy as allegedly involved in a campaign against MindsEye, though the company denies these claims.
What updates has MindsEye received recently?
A February 4 update was introduced as part of a "reset" for MindsEye, intended to improve gameplay and mark the beginning of a new development phase.
Is there any evidence of the alleged $1 million campaign?
Build a Rocket Boy claims to have evidence of coordinated efforts targeting the game, but independent verification is limited, and Ritual Network denies involvement.
Will MindsEye include real-life names in the game?
The leaked footage suggests the studio may incorporate names from the controversy into future in-game missions, framing them as part of the narrative.
