The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.
Trend of Key Hires
This announcement mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the full message from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
David
Background of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an official debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as development progresses.
