2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of the game in the months to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently serves in 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 various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation continues.
