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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman assumes 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 the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the development of the game in the time to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the style."

"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 game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an official release date or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as development advances.