The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Reception
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Key Acquisitions
The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.
David
Background of the New Head
The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an confirmed release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as development continues.
