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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to address player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Hires

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative creators we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It confirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, he officially joins us on the specified date.

His guidance and experience in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in receiving Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to come.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year alongside a early access event. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, risks, and tests that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and trust your team can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

The game lacks an announced debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production progresses.