The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Mixed Response
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.
The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet community desires.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the entire message from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.
His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
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 was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward 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 fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation advances.
