Build a Rocket Boy, the developer behind MindsEye, is facing new legal action regarding the use of invasive employee surveillance software. The Game Workers branch of the Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has filed the action, alleging that monitoring practices violated data protection laws and the "basic dignity" of the workforce.

Allegations Surrounding Teramind Software

The controversy centers on the installation of Terimind software on company PCs. Originally reported in February, the software was allegedly deployed without the knowledge of employees. The presence of the tool only came to light after staff noticed their systems were performing slower than usual.

While the software was removed in March following a collective grievance from more than 40 BARB employees, the legal battle persists. The union claims that the employee surveillance software exceeded the legitimate scope of monitoring productivity or safeguarding company security. According to the IWGB, the software's capabilities included:

  • Tracking user keystrokes
  • Recording screen activity
  • Capturing microphone audio

The union alleges these actions resulted in recording individuals in their homes without their consent.

Transparency and Management Turmoil at Build a Rocket Boy

A major point of contention is the company's refusal to disclose how data was handled. The union is demanding transparency regarding what information was gleaned from the software, how it was stored, and why its installation was necessary.

Spring McParlin, the IWGB Game Workers' Branch chair, highlighted the tension within the studio, stating that workers stood up to "bullies in management" to force accountability. "Now BARB must meet our demands for data transparency," McParlin said, adding that the alleged actions violate employees' privacy rights.

The legal action comes amidst significant instability at the studio. While founders Gerhard and Benzies have claimed the studio was a victim of "sabotage" and disinformation, employees have pointed toward mismanagement, crunch, and a lack of direction as the primary issues. Following these tensions, Build a Rocket Boy subsequently laid off hundreds of employees.

The state of MindsEye itself remains a subject of debate. Although the studio has pushed multiple updates since launch, the game is often described as a "big sloppy mess" due to a lack of design clarity. While the title can be entertaining, it remains fundamentally flawed.

Build a Rocket Boy has declined to comment on the legal action.