The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer direction.
Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
The news follows a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text 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. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our players.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most popular series in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.
David
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 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! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description reads. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."
The game has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation continues.
