The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Hires
The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a clearer brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production continues.
