2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct vision.
Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
The news follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full content from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to continue seeing the progress of the game in the months to come.
David
Experience of the New Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or platforms, but players can look forward to additional details as development continues.
