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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Mixed 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 Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as creation continues.