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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a distinct vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

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 "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation progresses.