2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Poor Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined vision.
Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the full content from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. Following some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.
His management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production advances.
