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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

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

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or consoles, but players can look forward to more updates as creation advances.