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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire message from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After several months of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.