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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 working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president 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 game identity.

The president expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. 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 driven and talented developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and background in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all eager to keep seeing the progress of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every round. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as production progresses.