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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 over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Comes After Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

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

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was informative. It validated the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. After some time of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to keep observing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 alongside a early access event. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that shift every session. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The decision is yours."

The game does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but players can expect more updates as creation advances.