🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the New Head

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year together with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"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 game's pitch explains. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development continues.