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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as creation progresses.