2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a more distinct brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our audience.
The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."
"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 game's pitch reads. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
The game does not have an announced launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation advances.
