2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Comes After Mixed Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every match. Do you safely extract with your collected items? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production progresses.
