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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Response

The new appointee assumes 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' underwhelming early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description states. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but players can anticipate additional details as production progresses.