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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS 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. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"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 description states. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or consoles, but players can expect additional details as development continues.