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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer vision.

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

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to persist observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"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 reads. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development continues.