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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head 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 disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news mirrors a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full content from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having devoted the recent years developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of the game in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the style."

"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 description explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development progresses.