The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of the game in the months to ahead.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title 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 real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The choice is up to you."
The game has not yet received an official debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as creation advances.
