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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Response

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as creation progresses.