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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that shift every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game does not have an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production continues.