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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following some time of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, risks, and challenges that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production advances.