The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement follows a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years creating and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue observing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward 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 explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."
The game has not yet received an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development progresses.