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

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 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 states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production advances.