The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined direction.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”
With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to persist witnessing the development of the game in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but players can expect more updates as production continues.
