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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"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 game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can secure victory? The option is yours."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production advances.