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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes 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 lackluster unveiling last fall.

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

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire content from the president's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of the game in the months to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the style."

"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 official summary states. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as production progresses.