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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer game identity.

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

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half creating and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year together with a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every match. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as production continues.