🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed 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 this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him next week. We are all eager to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as creation advances.