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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production progresses.