2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Follows Poor Response
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Hires
This announcement follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, he starts with us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the New Leader
The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation continues.
