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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. After several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or platforms, but fans can expect further news as creation progresses.