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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following some time of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation advances.