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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire message from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and background in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can look forward to more updates as development continues.