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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head 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 updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

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

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or consoles, but fans can anticipate additional details as development continues.