IO Interactive Expands into Third-Party Publishing with Build A Rocket Boy

IO Interactive, the renowned developer of the Hitman series, is venturing into third-party publishing with its new partnership with Build A Rocket Boy, a prominent AAA game development studio founded by Leslie Benzies, a veteran of Rockstar Games. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for IO Interactive, as it expands its reach beyond its own IP and explores new opportunities in the gaming industry. IO Interactive has been largely self-publishing its Hitman series since parting ways with Square Enix in 2017. In addition to supporting the Hitman series, the company is also working on a James Bond origin story and a new fantasy IP. The partnership with Build A Rocket Boy is a natural progression for IO Interactive, as it seeks to leverage its expertise in game development and publishing to support other talented studios. Build A Rocket Boy has been actively working on several projects, including MindsEye and the online game/creation platform Everywhere, since receiving significant funding in 2018. The studio's vision and approach align with IO Interactive's values, making this partnership a strategic fit for both companies. IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak notes that the company has been considering publishing games from other studios for some time. The partnership with Build A Rocket Boy is a testament to IO Interactive's commitment to supporting innovative and ambitious game development. Abrak emphasizes that IO Interactive is not looking to become a large-scale publisher overnight, instead focusing on building strong partnerships and delivering high-quality games. The IOI Partners division, established by IO Interactive, will oversee the publishing of MindsEye, providing marketing, distribution, localization, and customer support. This partnership demonstrates IO Interactive's confidence in Build A Rocket Boy's vision and its ability to deliver a compelling gaming experience. MindsEye is an action-packed, cinematic thriller that aligns with IO Interactive's style, featuring a unique blend of action and adventure elements. The game is expected to grow over time, with a focus on creating an expanding universe that offers a rich and engaging experience for players. IO Interactive has a proven track record of delivering high-quality games, with over 500 updates released for the Hitman series since 2016. The company's expertise in game development, publishing, and community building makes it an attractive partner for Build A Rocket Boy and other studios looking to bring their games to market. As IO Interactive continues to navigate the publishing landscape, it remains committed to its core values of innovation, creativity, and quality. The partnership with Build A Rocket Boy is a significant step forward for the company, and Abrak is excited about the prospects of this collaboration and the potential for future partnerships.