2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined vision.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Hires
This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. After some time of talks, he starts with us on next week.
His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in greeting him in the coming days. We are all excited to persist seeing the development of the game in the time to ahead.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description states. "Face the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and tests that change every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
The game lacks an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as development progresses.
