The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Change Follows Lukewarm Response
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to heart and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our players.
The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
David
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution 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 description states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as creation continues.
