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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete message from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to further news as creation continues.