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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can secure victory? The decision is yours."

The game lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development continues.