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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct game identity.

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

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following a period of conversations, he officially joins us on next week.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to persist witnessing the development of the game in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Face the competition with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation continues.