🔗 Share this article

2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the development of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

The game does not have an official release date or platforms, but fans can expect more updates as creation continues.