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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Follows Poor Feedback

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the need for a clearer vision.

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

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

The news mirrors a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock development group.

Here is the complete content from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of the team. After several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an exciting advancement on the category."

"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 description states. "Take on the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that evolve every round. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."

The game lacks an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can expect additional details as development progresses.