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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee steps into 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 Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can anticipate more updates as production continues.