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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of the game in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the style."

"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. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an official launch window or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as development continues.