The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Response
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.
The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
Trend of Strategic Hires
The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire message from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, risks, and obstacles that shift every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation continues.
