The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Comes After Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After some time of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to keep seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
The President
Experience of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The option is in your hands."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production progresses.
