The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Follows Poor Reception
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.
The president noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
His management and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.
David
Experience of the Incoming Leader
The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production continues.
