The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
Management Transition Follows Mixed Feedback
The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the requirement for a more defined direction.
Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
The news mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full text from the president's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper vision.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the time to ahead.
The President
Experience of the Incoming Leader
Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Vision
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward 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 description reads. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but players can expect additional details as creation progresses.
