The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Response
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to heart and overhauled the title with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.
The trust in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he starts with us on the specified date.
His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."
The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as production continues.
