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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire text from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward 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 description reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is yours."

The game does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect more updates as creation advances.