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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. After some time of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben next week. We are all excited to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that evolve every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an announced launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect additional details as production continues.