🔗 Share this article

2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a comparable action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire text from the president's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. After some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all excited to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year together with a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as production advances.