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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Response

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. Following several months of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the development of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but players can expect additional details as creation continues.