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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Response

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer direction.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the genre."

"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 game's pitch reads. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development progresses.