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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct direction.

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

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."

The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation continues.