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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time 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 developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined the title with a renewed vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, Ben starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of the game in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Initially, the developers portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every session. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as production advances.