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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep observing the development of the game in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to more updates as production progresses.