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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Transition Comes After Poor Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated team members about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.

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

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

The news echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's communication:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It validated the promise of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the need for a sharper vision.

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

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Concept

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative evolution on the category."

"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 description explains. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, put it on the line, and trust your group can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or supported systems, but enthusiasts can anticipate additional details as development advances.