The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Mixed Response
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer direction.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.
Below is the entire text from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to come.
David
Experience of the New Head
The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and hope your squad can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production continues.
