The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address community desires.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I understand you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”
With your dedication and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.
Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, Ben officially joins us on next week.
Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to ahead.
David
Background of the New Leader
The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that change every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."
The game does not have an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but players can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.
