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The renowned publisher has welcomed 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.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on 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 initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His guidance and background in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all excited to keep witnessing the development of the game in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can expect further news as development advances.