The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the full text from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a more distinct identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.
His leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary reads. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or platforms, but players can expect additional details as production advances.
