2K Games has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer vision.
The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.
Trend of Key Hires
The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most well-known series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the months to follow.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed 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
The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that shift every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your squad can secure victory? The choice is yours."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation progresses.
