2K Hires Popular Battle Royale Producer to Revitalize Struggling Action Game Project Ethos

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our players.

The belief in this project grows every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or platforms, but players can expect further news as development advances.