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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the entire message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the requirement for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the outstanding development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to keep witnessing the evolution of the game in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year together with a community playtest. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation advances.