🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the full message from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of the game in the months to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement 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 official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can anticipate additional details as development progresses.