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2K Games 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.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or consoles, but fans can expect further news as creation progresses.