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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or consoles, but players can expect more updates as development progresses.