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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Take on the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can expect further news as development continues.