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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head 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 unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full message from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated 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 criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"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 official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or platforms, but players can look forward to further news as development continues.