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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, risk it all, and pray your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but fans can anticipate more updates as development progresses.