2K Hires Apex Legends Lead to Revitalize Challenged Action Game Project Ethos

2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

Recently, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a more defined vision.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised vision, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on next week.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as development progresses.

Jodi Sandoval
Jodi Sandoval

Interior designer and lifestyle blogger with over a decade of experience in luxury home styling.