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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

The news follows a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

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

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all eager to continue seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"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 states. "Face the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate additional details as production advances.