The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Poor Reception
The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire text from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.
The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation advances.
