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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

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

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.

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

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our fans.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben officially joins us on next week.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as production progresses.