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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had indicated the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer noted that the team is now overhauling the project with a revised focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the full message from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to endure.”

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

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.

His management and expertise in the competitive gaming space is vast, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving Ben soon. We are all eager to keep witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Information and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 together with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the opponents with new abilities, challenges, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation progresses.