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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside 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 innovative evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation continues.