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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a renewed approach, aiming to address community desires.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock development group.

Below is the complete message from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the feedback to heart and overhauled the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee currently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a community playtest. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the official summary states. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but players can expect further news as creation continues.