The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer 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 roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Poor Feedback
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full content from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our fans.
The belief in this project grows every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but players can anticipate further news as development advances.
