2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Poor Response
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a sharper brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.
The trust in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on next week.
His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of the game in the months to follow.
The President
Experience of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."
The game lacks an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation progresses.
