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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the development of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but players can expect further news as production continues.