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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but fans can expect further news as development progresses.