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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show 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 improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the new Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation continues.