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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse 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 October 2024 together with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Take on the competition with new abilities, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but fans can expect additional details as production progresses.