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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the leadership position 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 autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

Here is the complete message from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep observing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as production advances.