The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Feedback
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Hires
The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full message from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our players.
Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
His management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the time to follow.
The President
Background of the New Head
The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and tests that change every match. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production continues.
