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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Poor Feedback

Brinkman assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined direction.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

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 message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but indicated we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our players.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After some time of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is extensive, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most recognizable series in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to persist observing the progress of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an exciting 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 suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and obstacles that change every round. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official launch window or consoles, but fans can expect more updates as development advances.