🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Response

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project grows every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. Following a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation advances.