The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Poor Reception
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president David Ismailer informed team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address community desires.
A Pattern of Key Hires
This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he officially joins us on next week.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to ahead.
The President
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in last year together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced debut schedule or consoles, but players can look forward to further news as development progresses.
