🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Feedback

Brinkman steps into 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 autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire content from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having devoted the recent years developing and leading some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation progresses.