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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

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

Here is the full content from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. After some time of talks, he comes aboard us on next week.

His management and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Take on the competition with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos has not yet received an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect further news as development advances.