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

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope 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 innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to keep seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or consoles, but players can look forward to more updates as creation advances.