The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Response
Brinkman takes on 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 Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct brand.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our audience.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in greeting Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the competition with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."
The game lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but players can anticipate more updates as creation continues.
