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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct vision.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production progresses.