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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked 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 Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or platforms, but players can look forward to more updates as development continues.