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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production advances.