The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Response
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated team members 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 team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the entire message from the president's memo:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, he starts with us on next week.
His guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"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 reads. "Take on the competition with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but fans can anticipate additional details as production continues.
