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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined vision.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

The game lacks an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as development advances.