The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. After some time of discussions, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all eager to continue observing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently 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 development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience 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 real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."
The game has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but fans can anticipate more updates as development continues.
