The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback
Brinkman assumes 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 the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the months to follow.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."
The game does not have an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation advances.
