🔗 Share this article

2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of the game in the months to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"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 description explains. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as development advances.