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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Mixed Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the need for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that partnership to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to heart and revamped the title with a refreshed vision - one that’s ready to achieve its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of the team. Following a period of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having dedicated the past decade and a half producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary explains. "Take on the competition with new abilities, challenges, and tests that shift every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos has not yet received an official debut schedule or platforms, but players can expect additional details as production advances.