🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a clearer vision.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete text from the president's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward 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 official summary states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but players can expect further news as development advances.