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

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined game identity.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His management and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation progresses.