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2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader 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 informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire content from the president's memo:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following several months of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the recent years creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year together with a public demo. Then, the developers 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 description states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation advances.