2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Poor Response
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of the game in the time to come.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Face the competition with new abilities, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development progresses.
