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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to persist observing the evolution of the game in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"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 official summary explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but players can anticipate more updates as production advances.