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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Comes After Mixed Response

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a comparable step taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to persist.”

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

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to heart and overhauled the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. After several months of talks, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"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 description states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect further news as creation continues.