🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete message from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The belief in this project grows every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can look forward to further news as creation continues.