The Gaming Giant Hires Popular Battle Royale Lead to Rescue Challenged Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the feedback to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of the team. After several months of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect further news as production progresses.