2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee steps into 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 underwhelming unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.
His management and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist seeing the development of the game in the months to ahead.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or supported systems, but fans can look forward to more updates as production continues.
