The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and overhauled the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of the game in the weeks to ahead.
David
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production continues.
