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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response

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

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct direction.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.

His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but players can look forward to more updates as production advances.