2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Comes After Poor Reception
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer vision.
The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete content from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.
His guidance and background in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having devoted the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most popular series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Background of the New Leader
The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every session. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production progresses.
