🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following several months of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter space is vast, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him in the coming days. We are all excited to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Challenge the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as creation advances.