The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a clearer vision.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to address gamer demands.
This announcement follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the full text from the president's communication:
Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was revealing. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the feedback to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
His management and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most popular series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the months to come.
The President
Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution 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 match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
Project Ethos lacks an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can anticipate more updates as production continues.
A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in tech consulting and content creation, passionate about simplifying complex topics.
