🔗 Share this article

2K Games has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our audience.

The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to keep witnessing the evolution of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."

"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 reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

The game lacks an official launch window or platforms, but fans can anticipate further news as creation progresses.