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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

Here is the entire content from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"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 opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or supported systems, but players can anticipate more updates as production advances.