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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to heart and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. Following a period of conversations, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as production continues.