The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Change Comes After Mixed Response
The new appointee steps into 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' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete content from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a clearer brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our players.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.
His management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the New Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that shift every session. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The option is yours."
The game lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.
