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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"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 states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as development advances.