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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full text from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"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 explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

The game lacks an official launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.