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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all eager to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is yours."

The game lacks an official launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as production continues.