2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Response
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined vision.
The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete content from the president's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of the game in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can expect further news as creation progresses.
