The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Mixed Response
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Hires
The news follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our audience.
The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to keep observing the progress of the game in the months to come.
The President
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the genre."
"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 description reads. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, challenges, and challenges that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your team can secure victory? The choice is yours."
The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but players can expect additional details as creation progresses.
