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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete text from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement 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 explains. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The decision is yours."

The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but players can expect further news as production progresses.