2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Key Hires
This announcement follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.
Here is the full message from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and reimagined the title with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and leading some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or supported systems, but players can look forward to additional details as creation continues.
