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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into 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 Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined vision.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"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 game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as creation continues.