2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Comes After Mixed Reception
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined vision.
The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he starts with us on next week.
His guidance and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The option is yours."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or consoles, but players can anticipate further news as production advances.
