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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Response

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete content from the president's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our players.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of the game in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation continues.