OK, I did try to start a thread on the whole project but it did not get any comments. It's here

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/5868192/help-me-design-my-basement-rec-room

I would truly appreciate any thoughts. We've cleared the room and my husband is starting on the walls on Wednesday.

I would go easier way. There is a faux brick wallpaper.

Light Gray Brick Wallpaper, Bolt · More Info

Reclaimed Bricks White Rustic Wallpaper, Bolt · More Info

What you do in the way of adding walls or finishing them depends upon how you want to use the space. How will it be used -- one large open rec room or are you planing to have a "quiet" space and another that is more active? Will there be a visible heater that might suggest a (faux) brick wall around it would be appropriate?

Wouldn't add brick walls only to paint them. Faux brick panels will do -- but wouldn't be my first choice for your walls other than, perhaps, as one accent wall -- above and behind your cabinets with your base cabinet fridge/cooler in lieu of any "backsplash". Can you add a bar sink in that row of base cabinets? Are you planning to add overhead cabinets over the base cabinets as well?

What furnishings do you plan for your basement ... modern digital gaming related? old fashioned board game table relate? exercise equipment? mix of these?

This is the peel and stick faux brick if you decide to go that route -- just get white rather than paint it white:

https://www.amazon.com/Wall-Stickers-20pcsWall-Home-Decor-Products-Self-Adhesive/dp/B01N0DRQF8/ref=asc_df_B01N0DRQF8/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=216767879473&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17246921767692145337&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011029&hvtargid=pla-386905854434&psc=1

I like the pictures as is. I think adding fake brick will cheapen the look and feel and be too much.

I don't like the idea of brick or faux brick at all. If wanting some texture on the wall, try bead board or shiplap.