The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Reception
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head 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 lackluster early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. Following some time of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling 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 match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with new abilities, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as production advances.
