The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Response
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete content from the president's communication:
Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the recent years creating and managing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution 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 game's pitch reads. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that change every match. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an official launch window or supported systems, but fans can anticipate further news as development advances.
