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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Director of the team. Following several months of discussions, he starts with us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most popular series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all excited to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game does not have an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation advances.