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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project grows every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. After some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"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 game's pitch states. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development advances.