Boy, oh boy, am I glad I missed MindsEye in 2025. It got hammered for its issues, lack of focus, and many other core elements. In short, it fell way short of its triple-A dreams. However, now the dust has settled, and the developer has had a chance to reflect on their errors, is this a game that should be tackled? Alternatively, is it destined to be chucked on the rubbish heap forevermore? I’m thinking option A, as there are lofty plans for DLC later this year. Therefore, the player base must be keen for more depth, a bigger world, and new ideas.
This action-adventure title was developed by Build a Rocket Boy and published by IOI Partners A/S. It is a single-player third-person game that utilises cinematic cutscenes and “360-era” over-the-shoulder shooting mechanics. In short, it blends much-loved and dated mechanics with a modern element and a cyberpunk edge. Accordingly, it packs a lot in, and I can see why many people were hyped about its potential.
MindsEye delivers a compelling but short plot.
You play the role of Jacob Diaz. This former elite soldier is suffering from amnesia. Sadly, his implant doesn’t seem to be functioning correctly, and his fractured memories are enough to drive him to distraction. On top of this, Redrock is a dangerous desert city that is filled with rogue AI, corporate greed, and a cold and callous robot police force. Subsequently, the odds are against the hero as he searches for Hunter Morrison to expose a deep and troubling conspiracy.
The storytelling, cinematic, and central plot are fantastic. With incredible acting, well-balanced missions, and a clear purpose to move you from one element to another, you will enjoy the progress and the many twists and turns. Like Mafia, the large city acts as an inviting but cruel backdrop to many of the missions. Additionally, the reworked AI creates a sense of realism as you freely move from each location.
An array of interesting mechanics.
MindsEye has an array of fun and interesting core concepts to appeal to a large audience. Hacking, drones, and your implant work in harmony with the Mindseye implant. Here you can use your drone to highlight threats and overcome security risks. This is taken one step further when combat support is a must. Your robot companion can stun enemies or hack robots to create a deadly partner. Finally, there is an upgrade system that allows you to focus your pathway and improve your technical prowess.
If you are more hands-on, you’ll enjoy a large arsenal of vehicles to drive, chases to complete, and the option to freely roam the oppressive city. The developer describes these encounters as high octane, and I can’t disagree. The driving element is fun and full of surprises. Moreover, once you unlock the free roam option, it is an essential tool to explore the never-ending streets.
Combat is a key element as you take down an array of goons. This focuses on cover and shoot, rather than run and gun. The over-the-shoulder shooting mechanics were somewhat dated, but they are nicely balanced and perfect for a more tactical mindset. Mindseye delivers a large arsenal of weapons to play with. You get to enjoy the normal pistols, machine guns, and sniper rifles, but it is the exotic and laser-powered weapons that win you over.
MindsEye is a game of beauty and the beast.
MindsEye is a stunning game with incredible cinematic and a beautiful city to explore. However, I cannot ignore the glitches, bugs, and frame rate drops. Despite the patches and the hard work from the developer, it suffers from an array of unfortunate issues. I believe that these problems will be ironed out as this version of the game is a million times better than the 2025 release.
The audio is divine! I love the acting, the soundtrack, and the brilliant sound effects. Furthermore, the ambient sounds work perfectly, and the city feels alive and vibrant. Yes, there are a few wayward sounds to match the odd visual glitch, but it is mostly a flawless performance with some incredible cinematic.
Tight controls.
I have to applaud the team for their exceptional driving mechanics. The vehicles handle beautifully, and I adored the free roam mode much more as a consequence. Despite the old-school shooting mechanics, the combat is smooth, and I like how the drone tech and fighting elements go hand-in-hand.
If you are an Xbox player, you will not have access to the level editor. This is understandable as PC power is needed for the assets and to create every custom-made stage. However, console players can tackle community-made missions and an array of additional content every month. This is fantastic as it’ll keep people coming back for more.
MindsEye is a vast improvement.
2025 MindsEye deserved the hammering it received. In short, it was terrible. However, the 2026 Phoenix-from-the-ashes revamp is much better. Yes, it still has its problems, but many large and exciting games sit in the same boat. The difference with this IP is the hardworking developers who wish to rectify their mistakes. Accordingly, I think it is good, and I recommend buying it here! Can you piece together your fractured mind? Master your drone, pick your weapon and your vehicle, and smash that conspiracy theory into the dirt.
