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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct vision.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic 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 driven and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to persist witnessing the development of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and tests that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development advances.