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The renowned publisher has appointed Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which stressed that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer vision.

The president stated that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

This announcement follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the entire content from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It revealed the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the feedback to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized vision - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The trust in this project increases every day. To further the outstanding progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most popular franchises in the industry, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming him next week. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. At the time, the developers presented the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Face the rivals with unique powers, stakes, and tests that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The option is up to you."

The game does not have an confirmed debut schedule or platforms, but fans can anticipate more updates as creation advances.