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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full text from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The belief in this project increases every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all excited to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

The game lacks an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as creation progresses.