The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct vision.
The president noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment
The news mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full text from the president's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the requirement for a sharper vision.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its potential to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of the team. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all eager to continue observing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Title Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."
The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can anticipate more updates as development continues.
