🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Poor Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a clearer identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling 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 game's pitch states. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can secure victory? The choice is up to you."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as development advances.