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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of the game in the months to come.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect additional details as creation continues.