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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Response

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of the game in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production advances.