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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Mixed Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the full content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His management and background in the PVP shooter space is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production continues.