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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the style."

"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 official summary states. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as development continues.