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

Management Transition Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the need for a distinct game identity.

The president expressed that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to mind and reimagined the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and managing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and tests that shift every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect additional details as development progresses.