🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head 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 a key figure informed team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar 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.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to heart 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 further the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that shift every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as creation advances.