The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Poor Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a more defined game identity.
The president noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:
Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”
With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of the game in the months to come.
The President
Background of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every round. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."
The game does not have an official release date or supported systems, but fans can anticipate additional details as development advances.
