The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Comes After Mixed Response
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.
The president noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
The news echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full content from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our fans.
The belief in this project grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following several months of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can expect further news as production continues.
