The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.
Trend of Key Hires
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire message from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our players.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Director of the team. Following several months of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
His leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in last year together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The choice is yours."
The game does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but players can look forward to further news as creation advances.
