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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct game identity.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an official release date or platforms, but fans can expect further news as development continues.