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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster unveiling last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a update, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative creators we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was revealing. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To advance the remarkable advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s management and background in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the months to follow.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your group can earn top ranking? The option is yours."

The game lacks an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as development advances.