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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue observing the progress of the game in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can expect further news as production advances.