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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 working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a revised vision, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You embraced the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the recent years creating and managing some of the most popular series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. At the time, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective 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! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and obstacles that shift every round. Do you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an official debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as production advances.