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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to heart and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that change every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation advances.