🔗 Share this article

2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Poor Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on next week.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving him next week. We are all eager to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can anticipate further news as development advances.