The Gaming Giant Brings Onboard Apex Legends Developer to Revitalize Struggling Hero Shooter Project Ethos

The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a distinct vision.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our audience.

The trust in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. After a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and experience in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as development continues.