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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had shown the necessity for a clearer direction.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary explains. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and tests that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as development advances.