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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation continues.