The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Response
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the entire content from the president's communication:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to persist.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting him next week. We are all excited to keep seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."
The game does not have an announced release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as development continues.
