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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete text from the president's memo:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our fans.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most popular series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation progresses.