2K Recruits Apex Legends Producer to Boost Challenged Hero Shooter Project Ethos

2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he starts with us on next week.

His management and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate more updates as creation continues.