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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting him next week. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as production advances.