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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The belief in this project increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as production advances.