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

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into 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 initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from the president's memo:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue seeing the development of the game in the months to come.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds 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 diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling 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 match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development continues.