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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Comes After Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most well-known series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but players can look forward to additional details as development advances.