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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but players can expect additional details as creation progresses.