The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Response
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct direction.
Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full message from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the incoming Director of the team. Following some time of conversations, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.
The President
Background of the New Leader
The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that change every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as creation advances.
