The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Hires
The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the full content from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned 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 work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. Following some time of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed launch window or consoles, but fans can look forward to further news as creation continues.
