The Gaming Giant Hires Popular Battle Royale Producer to Rescue Troubled Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement follows a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire text from the president's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following several months of discussions, he officially joins us on the specified date.

His leadership and background in the competitive gaming genre is vast, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

The game lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production continues.