2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Change Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:
Team—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
His leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."
"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 game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production continues.
