The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Apex Legends Lead to Boost Struggling Action Game Project Ethos

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Comes After Mixed Feedback

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year together with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every round. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can secure victory? The choice is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation progresses.