The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer direction.
Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire text from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.
The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development continues.
