The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Apex Legends Developer to Rescue Troubled Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect more updates as development progresses.