🔗 Share this article

2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Poor Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having devoted the recent years producing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game lacks an announced launch window or consoles, but players can look forward to additional details as development advances.