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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a sharper vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue seeing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Face the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every round. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced debut schedule or consoles, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.