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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm 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 Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined vision.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete text from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. 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 persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but players can anticipate more updates as production advances.