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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

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

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but players can look forward to further news as creation continues.