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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the development of the game in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but players can anticipate additional details as development continues.