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 working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Poor Response
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.
The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full content from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that shift every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as creation progresses.
