The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Mixed Response
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a clearer direction.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from the president's memo:
Team—
I understand you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed 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 relationship to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our fans.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, Ben starts with us on next week.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Head
The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Vision
The upcoming game was unveiled in last year together with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the competition with new abilities, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as development advances.
