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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Poor Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

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 beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. Following several months of talks, he officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"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 official summary reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game lacks an announced release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as creation continues.