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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist observing the development of the game in the time to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or consoles, but fans can anticipate further news as creation continues.