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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer vision.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

The trust in this project grows every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on next week.

His guidance and background in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to keep observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person 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! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is up to you."

The game lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as creation advances.