Build A Rocket Boy CEO accuses rival firm of €1M smear campaign

A leaked meeting reveals explosive claims of espionage and bribes targeting a troubled game studio. Who's behind the alleged conspiracy—and why?

, and Administrator

2026 February 8 . 10:12 AM

1 min read

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Build A Rocket Boy CEO accuses rival firm of €1M smear campaign

Mark Gerhard, co-CEO of Build A Rocket Boy, has accused a UK-based firm called Ritual Network of orchestrating a smear campaign against his company. In a leaked meeting, he claimed that saboteurs had been identified and would face legal action for espionage and interference. The allegations involve payments to influencers, journalists, and even employees of his own studio.

Gerhard stated that a 'very big American company'—not Rocket Mortgage—funded a €1 million campaign to damage MindsEye and Build A Rocket Boy. He did not name the firm but insisted the plotters had been caught. Ritual Network, the company he publicly accused, has denied any involvement and says no evidence has been shared with them.

During the meeting, Gerhard admitted to secretly installing 'enhanced cybersecurity software' on employee computers. He also revealed plans to include the alleged conspirators in an upcoming MindsEye spy-themed mission.

Build A Rocket Boy confirmed a coordinated campaign against them but declined to comment on the leaked discussions. MindsEye, a 2025 release widely considered a commercial failure, remains at the centre of the conspiracy claims made by Gerhard and co-CEO Leslie Benzies.

Gerhard's accusations point to legal action against those he believes orchestrated the sabotage. The claims include financial incentives for influencers and journalists, as well as internal interference. Ritual Network maintains its denial, while Build A Rocket Boy has not provided further details on the evidence behind the allegations.