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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete message from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and overhauled the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, he starts with us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your squad can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as creation advances.