2K’s ‘Project Ethos’ Game to Move Forward as Studio 31st Union Sets Ben Brinkman as New Boss
Key Takeaways
- 2K Games appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment as the new Studio Head of 31st Union.
- Brinkman replaces Michael Condrey, who was removed in February due to internal criticism regarding 'Project Ethos'.
- The appointment supports a 'renewed vision' for the long-gestating shooter, 'Project Ethos', following critical community feedback.
- Community feedback from a fall playtest indicated the game needed a more distinct identity despite affirming its roguelike shooter promise.
- Brinkman brings significant experience, having worked on major titles like 'Apex Legends' and 'Call of Duty: Black Ops'.
2K Games is injecting new leadership into developer 31st Union by appointing Ben Brinkman, previously Head of Production for Apex Legends at Respawn Entertainment, as the new Studio Head. Brinkman replaces Michael Condrey, who departed in February amid internal issues surrounding the development of the shooter, 'Project Ethos'. 2K President David Ismailer confirmed the move in a memo, stating that community feedback from a fall playtest affirmed the game's potential as a roguelike shooter but highlighted the need for a more distinct identity. Ismailer noted that the team has since reimagined 'Project Ethos' with a 'renewed vision' that has increased the publisher's confidence in its eventual success. Brinkman officially starts on Monday, October 20, bringing extensive experience from titles like 'Apex Legends' and 'Call of Duty: Black Ops' to guide the project's evolution.
