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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. Following some time of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling 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 explains. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as development advances.