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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a distinct direction.

The president stated that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Hires

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the full content from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to endure.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of conversations, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and background in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that change every match. Will you safely extract with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can anticipate further news as creation progresses.