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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee 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 unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to keep seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"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 official summary reads. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as production progresses.