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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the recent years producing 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 looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with unique powers, challenges, and tests that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production progresses.