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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president stated that the team is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to work on the BioShock development group.

Below is the full text from the president's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To boost the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following some time of talks, he comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming him soon. We are all excited to continue seeing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

David

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that change every match. Will you safely extract with your collected items? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can expect additional details as production advances.