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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the competition with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but players can expect more updates as production advances.