The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a distinct direction.
Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address community desires.
The news echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:
Team—
I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a clearer brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and reimagined the title with a renewed goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.
His management and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep observing the evolution of the game in the months to ahead.
David
The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."
The game has not yet received an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development progresses.
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