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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Response

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

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

Below is the entire content from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting Ben soon. We are all excited to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective 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! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or supported systems, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation continues.