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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a distinct game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

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

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. 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 category."

"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 states. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as creation progresses.