2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full text from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
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 believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the recent years creating and leading some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the time to come.
The President
Background of the New Head
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as development continues.
