Build A Rocket Boy (BARB), the Edinburgh-based video game company founded by former Grand Theft Auto developer Leslie Benzies, has gone into administration. Administrators from Opus Restructuring were appointed on September 29, 2026, and a further 36 positions have been cut.
Company enters administration
BARB was established in 2016 and initially worked on multiplayer role-playing game Everywhere before switching focus to action-adventure title MindsEye. The company unveiled its debut game, MindsEye, in June 2025, just 12 months before administrators were brought in.
The game experienced a difficult launch, with certain players labelling it "the worst game" of the year and "relentlessly dull". Following the release, between 250 and 300 staff members were reportedly made redundant.
Administrators' statement
Opus Restructuring said: "Allister Manson and Mark Harper of Opus Restructuring LLP were appointed Joint Administrators of Build A Rocket Boy Ltd on 23 September 2026."
"The directors sought the protection of Administration to safeguard the Company's business and assets while options for its future are assessed."
"The Joint Administrators are undertaking an immediate review and intend to continue trading the business while exploring all available options with a view to maximising value for creditors and other stakeholders."
Impact on employees
"49 of the Company's 85 employees were retained upon appointment. Those employees who were made redundant will be supported by the Joint Administrators in claiming their statutory entitlements."
It further added: "The Joint Administrators will also engage with relevant stakeholders in relation to ongoing investigations and assess any potential causes of action available to the Company in connection with the issues and circumstances surrounding the launch of MindsEye, the Company's principal game."
"Interested parties should contact Opus Restructuring LLP for further information at buildarocketboy@opusllp.com." Build A Rocket Boy has been approached for comment.
What administration means
A company may be forced into administration when it becomes unable to meet its financial obligations, a situation known as insolvency. During this period, all payments owed to creditors are frozen while the process unfolds. A qualified administrator from an accountancy firm takes the helm, overseeing proposals to restructure the business and keeping operations running until a new owner is typically found.
Creditors must be repaid as much as possible, generally through the sale of company assets. Administration is a lengthy procedure that can span several months. In the most severe cases, if no viable means of generating further revenue can be identified, a company may be placed into liquidation and permanently wound down.
