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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Mixed Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"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 description reads. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as development continues.