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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Response

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct direction.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

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

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him in the coming days. We are all excited to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation continues.