🔗 Share this article 2K Hires Apex Legends Producer to Revitalize Troubled Hero Shooter Ambitious Title The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos. Management Shift Follows Mixed Response The new appointee assumes 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 Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall. Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction. Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands. Trend of Strategic Acquisitions The news mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber. Below is the entire content from the president's announcement: Hello Everyone— I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.” Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that. The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper brand. The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans. Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. After several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week. Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit. I invite you all in greeting him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead. The President Experience of the Incoming Leader Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts. Title Information and Vision The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style." "Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is in your hands." Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as creation advances.