🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a more defined vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the incoming Lead of the team. Following several months of talks, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but players can look forward to further news as production progresses.