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2K Games has appointed 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 over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

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

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After a period of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him in the coming days. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of the game in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as production progresses.