2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Comes After Mixed Reception
Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct direction.
The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Hires
The news follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
David
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."
"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 official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development continues.
