2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Response
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Hires
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire text from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all excited to keep seeing the progress of the game in the months to come.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but players can look forward to more updates as creation continues.
