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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following several months of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development advances.