🔗 Share this article

2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer vision.

The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting Ben next week. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production continues.