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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined direction.

The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all excited to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game lacks an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production advances.