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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a distinct game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable 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 announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. Following some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the months to come.

David

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed release date or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as production continues.