2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Key Hires
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the complete content from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.
The belief in this project grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
David
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward 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 game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your team can secure victory? The choice is yours."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can anticipate additional details as creation progresses.
