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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Response

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an official communication, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer vision.

The president expressed that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete content from the president's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a update, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and talented designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a sharper identity.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to mind and overhauled the title with a renewed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following some time of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s management and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and managing some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch reads. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that evolve every session. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, gamble everything, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is up to you."

The game has not yet received an official release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production progresses.