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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.

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

The president noted that the team is now refining the project with a revised focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar move 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 entire text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the new Lead of 31st Union. After a period of discussions, he officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming field is extensive, having spent the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving him next week. We are all excited to persist seeing the development of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"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 game's pitch reads. "Face the competition with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that shift every round. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and pray your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to additional details as creation continues.