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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Response

Brinkman assumes the leadership position 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.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

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

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

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the input to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, he starts with us on next week.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known franchises in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben soon. We are all looking forward to keep seeing the evolution of the game in the time to follow.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter 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 description states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect more updates as development advances.