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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, he officially joins us on next week.

His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or consoles, but players can expect more updates as production progresses.