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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a distinct vision.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock development group.

Here is the full content from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The belief in this project grows every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to continue observing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a early access event. Then, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an exciting evolution on the category."

"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 official summary reads. "Face the competition with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation continues.