🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he starts with us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having devoted the recent years creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can anticipate further news as creation advances.