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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Shift Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben starts with us on next week.

His management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in receiving him next week. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience 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 live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

The game does not have an announced debut schedule or platforms, but players can look forward to additional details as development continues.