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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Comes After Lukewarm Feedback

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

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a more defined direction.

The president expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete content from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the criticism to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the new Studio Head of the team. Following a period of discussions, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having dedicated the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to continue observing the progress of the game in the months to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Face the rivals with new abilities, risks, and tests that shift every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your squad can secure victory? The option is up to you."

The game lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development continues.