🔗 Share this article

2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full message from the president's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as development continues.