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2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 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! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as creation continues.