The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Apex Legends Lead to Rescue Challenged Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. 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 revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having spent the recent years creating and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist observing the development of the game in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

The game lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development progresses.