The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.
The president expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Hires
The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a sharper vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
The game does not have an official release date or consoles, but fans can anticipate further news as production progresses.
