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2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete message from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most popular series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the category."

"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 description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an official release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production continues.