🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete content from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist observing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Face the competition with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but fans can expect more updates as development progresses.