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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct game identity.

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

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving him next week. We are all excited to keep seeing the development of the game in the months to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward 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 match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as development continues.