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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the entire message from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration 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 promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that change every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production progresses.