The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Follows Lukewarm Feedback
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.
The president stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.
Trend of Key Acquisitions
The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers 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 last year, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a more distinct identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our audience.
The belief in this project grows every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Title Information and Vision
Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that change every round. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."
Project Ethos does not have an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as development advances.