The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Reception
The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.
The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
Trend of Key Recruitment
The news echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.
Here is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:
Dear Team—
I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to endure.”
Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a clearer brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to mind and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to fulfill its ambition to our audience.
Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the new Director of 31st Union. After a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.
Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.
The President
Background of the Incoming Leader
The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Information and Concept
The upcoming game was revealed in last year in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the category."
"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your collected items? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."
The game does not have an official debut schedule or consoles, but fans can anticipate additional details as creation continues.