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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Response

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. Following a period of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that shift every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can secure victory? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but fans can expect additional details as production continues.