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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete message from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to heart and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed release date or supported systems, but fans can anticipate further news as creation continues.