The Gaming Giant Hires Apex Legends Producer to Revitalize Challenged Hero Shooter Ambitious Title

The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

Ismailer noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the need for a clearer brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. Following some time of conversations, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description explains. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but fans can anticipate more updates as development progresses.