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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio 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 a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct direction.

The president expressed that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to keep witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative step forward on the style."

"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 description reads. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or consoles, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation advances.