The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Feedback
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct vision.
The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.
The belief in this project increases every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.
His management and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Background of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that change every round. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."
The game does not have an official launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as development progresses.
