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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development advances.