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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our players.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as creation advances.