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

Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Reception

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

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our fans.

The trust in this project increases every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, 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.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your team can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development progresses.