2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer game identity.
The president expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and overhauled the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.
The trust in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of the game in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the New Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or supported systems, but players can anticipate more updates as development advances.
