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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust 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 group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.

The belief in this project grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production continues.