The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Comes After Poor Feedback
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.
Ismailer noted that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Key Hires
The news mirrors a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following several months of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or consoles, but players can anticipate further news as development advances.
