🔗 Share this article

2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a clearer game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but players can expect further news as development advances.