The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Change Comes After Mixed Reception
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming unveiling last fall.
Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.
The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete message from the president's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to mind and revamped the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the New Leader
The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the game 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 suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and hope your team can secure victory? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but players can anticipate additional details as production progresses.
