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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

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

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the full text from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or supported systems, but players can look forward to additional details as production advances.