2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Response
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.
Recently, 2K president David Ismailer notified team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined direction.
The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete content from the president's announcement:
Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is yours."
The game lacks an official release date or supported systems, but players can look forward to additional details as production continues.
