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

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

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

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all eager to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person 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 fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production progresses.