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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into 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 the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that evolve every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production progresses.