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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Mixed Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the full text from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After several months of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting him soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, challenges, and tests that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but fans can anticipate more updates as creation progresses.