The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
The President
Background of the New Head
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your squad can secure victory? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or supported systems, but players can anticipate further news as production progresses.
