2K Games has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Reception
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.
Trend of Key Hires
The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our fans.
The trust in this project strengthens every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of discussions, he starts with us on next week.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
The game lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation advances.
