2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct vision.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the full text from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.
The trust in this project increases every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After several months of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having spent the recent years creating and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
David
Experience of the New Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Take on the competition with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."
The game does not have an official launch window or supported systems, but players can anticipate further news as creation continues.
