🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct vision.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having spent the last 15 years creating and managing some of the most popular titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all excited to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game lacks an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as production continues.