2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Poor Response
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.
Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full content from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship 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 playtest was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our players.
The trust in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official release date or platforms, but players can expect additional details as production progresses.
