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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to heart and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, he officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to keep seeing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as development progresses.