The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Shift Follows Lukewarm Response
Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct game identity.
Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.
A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions
The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.
Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I understand you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.
The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a more distinct identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.
The trust in this project grows every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben starts with us on the specified date.
Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.
David
Experience of the New Leader
The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the style."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."
The game does not have an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can expect further news as creation advances.
