The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Here is the complete message from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.
The belief in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half creating and managing some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development progresses.
