The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Poor Response
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After several months of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to persist witnessing the development of the game in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the New Head
The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development continues.
