The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment 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 Change Comes After Lukewarm Response
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer vision.
The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following some time of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
His management and experience in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having spent the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as development progresses.
