2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined direction.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a sharper vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is yours."
The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but players can expect additional details as creation advances.
