2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman takes on 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 the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Hires
The news follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving him soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."
The game has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but players can look forward to further news as production continues.
