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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct direction.

The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter space is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"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. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, stakes, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or consoles, but players can look forward to additional details as development progresses.