The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Poor Feedback
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a clearer game identity.
The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to address player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock development group.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”
With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
The trust in this project increases every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the recent years producing and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of the game in the time to follow.
The President
Experience of the New Head
The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."
The game lacks an official debut schedule or platforms, but players can expect more updates as creation continues.
