2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Change Follows Poor Response
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete content from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your meeting - 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 believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and reimagined the title with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our players.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all excited to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production progresses.
