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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full text from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, risks, and challenges that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or consoles, but players can expect additional details as development advances.