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2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined direction.

The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. Following a period of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation continues.