The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Feedback
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer vision.
The president expressed that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.
Here is the full text from the president's announcement:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct brand.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our fans.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
His guidance and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most popular series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.
Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to keep observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to come.
The President
Background of the New Leader
The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement 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 game's pitch reads. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, stakes, and tests that shift every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as creation continues.
