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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter 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 live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can expect additional details as creation continues.