2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Below is the complete text from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
His management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to keep witnessing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting 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 fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your squad can secure victory? The choice is up to you."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development progresses.
