2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction.
The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised focus, aiming to address player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.
The belief in this project increases every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, he starts with us on next week.
Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the development of the game in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed 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 Details and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Face the competition with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
The game lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production progresses.
