🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution 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 suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every session. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but players can anticipate further news as creation advances.