2K Brings Onboard Apex Legends Developer to Revitalize Troubled Action Game Project Ethos

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire message from the president's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development progresses.