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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Feedback

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

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"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 official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that shift every session. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.