2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Key Hires
The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the full text from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our players.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production progresses.
