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

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on next week.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all eager to continue observing the development of the game in the months to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"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 reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, risks, and tests that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

The game lacks an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production continues.