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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution 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 fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your squad can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development advances.