2K Games has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.
The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the full message from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”
With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of the game in the months to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. Then, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your team can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
The game does not have an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can expect further news as development advances.
