2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback
Brinkman steps into 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 disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined direction.
Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”
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 informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.
His leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or platforms, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.
