2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Comes After Poor Reception
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.
The president expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete content from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all eager to persist observing the progress of the game in the months to come.
David
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or platforms, but players can anticipate additional details as production advances.
