The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Poor Reception
Brinkman takes on 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 disappointing initial reveal last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct vision.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to address player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a sharper brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.
The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to persist observing the development of the game in the weeks to follow.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch states. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."
The game lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but players can expect additional details as production continues.
