2K Brings Onboard Apex Legends Developer to Boost Struggling Action Game Ambitious Title

2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Response

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year together with a early access event. Then, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as creation advances.