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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting Ben next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution 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 suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but players can anticipate further news as production progresses.