The Gaming Giant Hires Apex Legends Lead to Rescue Struggling Hero Shooter Project Ethos
The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.
Leadership Shift Comes After Poor Reception
Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.
On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a distinct game identity.
The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to address gamer demands.
A Pattern of Key Recruitment
This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the complete content from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”
Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper identity.
It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the criticism to mind and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our players.
The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His management and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.
Let’s together in greeting him next week. We are all eager to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and trust your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
The game does not have an confirmed release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production progresses.