The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Mixed Reception
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your gathering - 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 believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.
His management and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in greeting him soon. We are all excited to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your squad can secure victory? The option is yours."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production continues.
