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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 developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union 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 employees about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following several months of discussions, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most popular series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or take a risk, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation continues.