At the beginning of June 2025, the long-awaited release of MindsEye took place, a project that attracted attention long before its release due to the involvement of Leslie Benzies, a former producer of GTA. The novelty is positioned as a large-scale action-adventure with elements of science fiction, developed by the studio Build A Rocket Boy.
The game’s release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S was perceived as a significant event. However, the initial reviews turned out to be mixed – some players expressed serious concerns about the quality of execution.

### Release of MindsEye: Ambitious World from the Creator of GTA
The project itself initially sparked interest due to its connections with Rockstar Games and the legacy of the Grand Theft Auto series. The action game MindsEye was announced as part of the Everywhere metaverse, but upon launch, it received its own distinct positioning – a separate narrative module focusing on a single-player campaign and cinematic experience.
In the game, players take on the role of a mercenary caught in the whirlwind of corporate conspiracies and biotechnological terror. MindsEye actively utilizes mechanics such as perspective shifting, vehicular sections, close combat, and shootouts. All accompanied by dramatic storytelling and an attempt to build a cyberpunk-inspired world.
### Significance for Build A Rocket Boy
The release of MindsEye was not just the launch of a new project but a crucial moment for the entire Build A Rocket Boy team. This is the studio’s first full-fledged independent development under the leadership of Leslie Benzies – a figure who had a significant impact on the industry during the GTA V era.
The launch was a challenge: to prove that the team is capable of offering the audience something more than just a nostalgic brand. Against the backdrop of expectations and marketing statements, the release took on a strategic character – it had to show what the new studio is capable of without relying on old franchises. The level of buzz confirms high interest, but the initial reactions demonstrated that ideas alone are not enough – excellence in execution is required.
### Technical Features and Platforms
The release took place simultaneously on all target systems. On PC, the game showcases support for ray tracing, DLSS 3.5, and scalable graphics settings. On the new generation consoles, it consistently maintains 60 frames per second in performance mode and 4K resolution in quality mode.
Localization is presented in an expanded version – MindsEye is available in Russian, including full voiceover and subtitles. This fact was positively received by the audience in the CIS countries, where the game received marketing support.
### Key Mechanics and Features
The fantastic action game MindsEye is built on a combination of narrative tension and diverse gameplay scenarios. Among the main components are missions with chases, combat encounters, exploration of futuristic locations, and interactive dialogues. The world’s architecture resembles a hybrid between linear levels and open spaces with optional tasks. Key features as stated by the developers:
– Mechanic of shifting between realities and digital spaces;
– Cinematic shootouts with cover and special effects;
– Interactive inserts with moral choice reactions;
– Open areas with the ability to move around in vehicles;
– Weapon and implant upgrade system;
– Character appearance customization.
The combination of mechanics demonstrates an attempt to merge RPG ideas, action gameplay, and science fiction in one project. However, the release of MindsEye elicited different reactions from players and the press.
### Visual Style and Artistic Concept
From a visual standpoint, the game MindsEye is executed in the style of post-neon futurism. Urban areas, laboratories, wastelands, and in-game cyberspaces are designed with an emphasis on lighting effects and contrast. The camera work in cutscenes demonstrates a strive for a cinematic approach, largely inherited from the GTA series.
The physical animation at the start does not always demonstrate stable performance, but the surrounding detail and vehicle design turned out expressive. The in-game interface, designed as a tactical holographic assistant, deserves special attention.
### Comparison with Grand Theft Auto and Positioning
After the release of MindsEye, comparisons with GTA became inevitable. However, the developers themselves insisted on a different concept. While Grand Theft Auto revolves around an open world, criminal satire, and a wide gameplay sandbox, MindsEye focuses on the story, cutscenes, linear missions, and atmospheric setting.
The level design and storytelling approach are closer to action films than traditional open-world games. Nevertheless, visual and design decisions familiar from GTA make their presence known – especially in the transport animation style, city street layouts, and scene tempo.
### MindsEye Pricing: Pricing Policy
At launch, MindsEye is accompanied by the standard cost for AAA projects. Prices vary depending on the region and platform. Current prices are as follows: PC: starting from $49.99 / 3499 rubles, PlayStation 5: starting from 5499 rubles, Xbox Series X/S: starting from 5499 rubles.
There is also a digital deluxe edition available with bonus materials, additional clothing, and a soundtrack. Players can purchase it for $69.99 / 4999 rubles.
### Player Reviews: Ambitions Did Not Meet Expectations
Immediately after the release of MindsEye, the first reviews and user reviews began to appear online. On major platforms like Metacritic and OpenCritic, scores range from 5.5 to 6.8. Players praise the visual style, music, and the idea, but sharply criticize the performance, rough mechanics, and weak physics.
The main reasons for negative reviews are:
– Unstable PC optimization and FPS drops even on powerful setups;
– Artificial intelligence of enemies demonstrating primitive behavior;
– Numerous bugs in the story campaign;
– Lack of a well-developed melee combat system;
– Overly prolonged cutscenes not always logically connected to gameplay;
– Issues with the interface when using Russian voiceover.
Positive reviews focus on the artistic direction, ambitious concept, and the idea of building a multi-layered world. Users acknowledge that MindsEye has potential but needs refinement.

### Release of MindsEye: Main Points
The release of MindsEye turned out to be both a bright and problematic start for Build A Rocket Boy. Against the backdrop of loud statements and the involvement of a former GTA producer, the game failed to fully meet the audience’s expectations.
Nevertheless, the underlying concept, original style, and multimedia storytelling approach allow considering the project as potentially evolving. Addressing technical shortcomings and releasing patches will determine whether MindsEye can find its place in the realm of sci-fi action games.