🔗 Share this article

The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full text from the president's memo:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he officially joins us on next week.

His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most well-known franchises in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all excited to continue observing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, the developers presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every match. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or go big, put it on the line, and hope your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

The game has not yet received an announced launch window or platforms, but players can expect additional details as development advances.