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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Response

The new appointee takes on the leadership position 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 lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the need for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the development of the game in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented 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! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production advances.