The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.
Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now refining the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our players.
The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of conversations, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.
His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and hope your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or platforms, but players can look forward to more updates as production continues.
