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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

This announcement follows a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the feedback to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and experience in the competitive gaming genre is considerable, having devoted the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him next week. We are all excited to continue witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in last year together with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with new abilities, risks, and tests that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or consoles, but fans can expect further news as creation advances.