2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Poor Reception
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer direction.
The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.
Trend of Key Hires
The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to persist observing the evolution of the game in the months to come.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in last year together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as production continues.
