The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Change Follows Mixed Feedback
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete message from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most popular series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting him next week. We are all excited to keep observing the development of the game in the time to come.
David
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation continues.
