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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement 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 suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but players can expect further news as development continues.