The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Management Change Comes After Poor Feedback
Brinkman assumes 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 autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a clearer vision.
The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.
A Pattern of Key Hires
The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:
Dear Team—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our fans.
Our confidence in this project increases every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all excited to persist seeing the development of the game in the time to ahead.
The President
Experience of the New Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the style."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as production continues.
