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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer vision.

The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

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

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

His management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as production advances.