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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's underwhelming early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

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

Team—

I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and background in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that shift every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.