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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

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

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all excited to continue observing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can secure victory? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as creation progresses.