The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Apex Legends Developer to Boost Challenged Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from the president's memo:

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Then, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.