2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Poor Reception
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.
Trend of Key Hires
The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our fans.
The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he officially joins us on next week.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement 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 suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as creation advances.
