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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position 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' disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us 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 accepted the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. Following several months of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Face the competition with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that change every match. Do you safely extract with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development continues.