The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
The president noted that the developers is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to address community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to mind and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our players.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that evolve every session. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as production progresses.
