The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.
The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s management and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all excited to persist witnessing the progress of the game in the time to come.
David
Experience of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Information and Vision
The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or platforms, but fans can look forward to more updates as development advances.
