The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Comes After Poor Reception
Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete content from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to keep seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Head
The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."
The game has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as production progresses.
