2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the entire message from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After several months of talks, he officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the recent years creating and leading some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the competition with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
The game does not have an official release date or platforms, but players can expect more updates as development continues.
