The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes 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 Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined vision.
The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from the president's memo:
Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.
The trust in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.
The President
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."
Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but fans can look forward to further news as development continues.
