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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

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

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development continues.