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2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. 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 creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist observing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective 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 suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that change every session. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development continues.