The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a clearer vision.
The president stated that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire content from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”
With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a clearer vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our audience.
The trust in this project grows every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.
His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the months to follow.
David
Background of the New Head
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development continues.
