🔗 Share this article

2K Games has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, 2K president a key figure notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a distinct game identity.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game has not yet received an official launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as production continues.