The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Mixed Reception
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete message from Ismailer's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to keep observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
The game does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as development continues.
