2K Brings Onboard Apex Legends Producer to Rescue Struggling Hero Shooter Project Ethos

2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure notified employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the development of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as development advances.