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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman 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 disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of the game in the months to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but players can look forward to further news as production continues.