2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Mixed Reception
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete text from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our fans.
The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is vast, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production continues.
