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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 this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct vision.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

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

The trust in this project grows every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience 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 fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game lacks an official release date or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as creation continues.