The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Poor Feedback
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.
The president noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the entire message from the president's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.
The belief in this project grows every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to keep seeing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."
The game lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but players can expect further news as production continues.
