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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as production continues.