🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure informed team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to keep seeing the development of the game in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the New Head

The appointee presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production continues.