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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

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

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all excited to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling 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 description explains. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as development advances.