The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a distinct vision.
The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following some time of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.
His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all eager to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in last year together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward 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 match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as production progresses.
