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2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year together with a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Face the opponents with new abilities, risks, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as development progresses.