The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.
Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct vision.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
The news echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our audience.
The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted 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 lately, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to persist observing the development of the game in the time to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."
The game lacks an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development continues.
