The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.
His leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is yours."
The game does not have an official launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as production advances.
