2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer vision.
The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our players.
The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as development progresses.
