The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Response
Brinkman steps into the leadership position 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 underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a distinct direction.
The president expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.
Trend of Key Recruitment
This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our audience.
The belief in this project grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and background in the competitive gaming field is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.
The President
Experience of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but players can expect additional details as production progresses.
