2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.
The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to address player expectations.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's memo:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.
The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to keep observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
David
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"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. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that change every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but players can anticipate additional details as development progresses.
