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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue observing the progress of the game in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can anticipate additional details as creation continues.