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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, he officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving him next week. We are all excited to keep witnessing the development of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"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 description states. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but players can expect additional details as production advances.