The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Reception
Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a clearer vision.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Key Hires
This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from the president's memo:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most popular titles in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.
David
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Then, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience 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 match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or consoles, but fans can anticipate additional details as production advances.
