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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire text from the president's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game demo was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s leadership and background in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having devoted the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all excited to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that change every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as production advances.