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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

The news follows a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.

His management and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to continue witnessing the development of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. At the time, the developers portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

The game lacks an confirmed release date or platforms, but fans can expect further news as development advances.