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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a distinct direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To advance the outstanding progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the new Director of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having spent the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in last year together with a early access event. Initially, the developers described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch reads. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that change every match. Will you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and hope your team can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.