The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Popular Battle Royale Lead to Boost Struggling Action Game Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of the team. After a period of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead 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 series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"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 official summary explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that shift every match. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.

Karen Odonnell
Karen Odonnell

Environmental scientist and sustainability advocate passionate about sharing eco-friendly practices.