The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Face the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or consoles, but players can expect further news as creation progresses.
