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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Hires

This announcement follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire content from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to come.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development advances.