The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Response
Brinkman steps into 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 the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct vision.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.
The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After several months of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement 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 game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation continues.
