The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a distinct vision.
Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Recruitment
This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the entire text from the president's communication:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our fans.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that change every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."
The game lacks an official release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as production continues.
