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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined direction.

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

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. After several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as creation progresses.