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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure 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 updated employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news follows a comparable action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the complete content from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to endure.”

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

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His management and background in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most popular titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming him next week. We are all eager to keep seeing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary explains. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Or aim high, risk it all, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can anticipate further news as production continues.