The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Hires
This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the entire text from the president's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a clearer brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our players.
The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
David
Experience of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your squad can secure victory? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or consoles, but fans can look forward to more updates as production progresses.