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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."

The game has not yet received an official debut schedule or consoles, but fans can expect more updates as development continues.