🔗 Share this article 2K Hires Popular Battle Royale Developer to Rescue Struggling Hero Shooter Ambitious Title The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game. Management Change Follows Mixed Reception The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last autumn. Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity. Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address gamer demands. A Pattern of Strategic Hires The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group. Below is the entire message from the president's memo: Dear Team— I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.” Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that. The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity. It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our fans. The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After several months of talks, he starts with us on next week. His management and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends. Please join me in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead. The President Background of the Incoming Head The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise 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. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category." "Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours." Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or consoles, but players can look forward to further news as creation advances.