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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire text from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the recent years producing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all excited to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and tests that change every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or supported systems, but players can anticipate further news as development progresses.