🔗 Share this article

2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your team can secure victory? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or consoles, but fans can anticipate further news as development progresses.