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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a more defined direction.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. Following several months of discussions, he starts with us on the specified date.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official release date or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as production progresses.