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

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct vision.

The president expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire text from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our players.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward 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 match your preferred approach," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as development continues.