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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the full content from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. 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 designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.

The belief in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation continues.