2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.
The president noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Hires
The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Below is the entire message from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe 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 excited for that partnership to persist.”
Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a clearer vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most popular titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of the game in the months to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in 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 games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a community playtest. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."
"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 description explains. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, risks, and challenges that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development progresses.
