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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving him next week. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect more updates as development advances.