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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct vision.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

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

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction 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 category."

"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 description reads. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every match. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or consoles, but players can expect further news as creation advances.