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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all excited to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that change every round. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

The game lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but fans can anticipate further news as production progresses.