🔗 Share this article

2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. Following some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that change every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as creation advances.