2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Response
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our players.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"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 explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that evolve every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."
The game does not have an announced launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as development advances.
