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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

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

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and tests that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as development continues.