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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire content from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your team can secure victory? The choice is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed launch window or consoles, but fans can expect additional details as creation continues.