The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a more defined vision.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our audience.
The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following several months of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
His management and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to keep observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Experience of the New Head
Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."
"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 game's pitch reads. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can expect additional details as production continues.
