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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head 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 underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full message from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to persist observing the development of the game in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your group can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production continues.