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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer 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 Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman steps into 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.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Take on the competition with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can expect further news as creation continues.