The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Response
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, 2K president a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to heart and overhauled the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all eager to keep observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or platforms, but players can anticipate additional details as creation progresses.
