2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Poor Reception
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct vision.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to consideration and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
The game has not yet received an official launch window or supported systems, but players can look forward to more updates as creation continues.
