The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Poor Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a clearer vision.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as development progresses.
