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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a distinct direction.

The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its potential to our fans.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. After some time of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to keep seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to match your preferred approach," the description explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and challenges that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can secure victory? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos has not yet received an confirmed release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation continues.