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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee assumes 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 the game's underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire content from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. After several months of conversations, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that change every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

The game lacks an confirmed launch window or consoles, but fans can expect further news as production progresses.