🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Poor Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the recent years creating and managing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting Ben next week. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting step forward 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 description reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can look forward to more updates as creation advances.