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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

The president noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the recent years creating and managing some of the most popular series in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, risks, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as production continues.