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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 developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Comes After Mixed Reception

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at 31st Union following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a distinct vision.

Ismailer stated that the team is now overhauling Project Ethos with a revised vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to work on the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the positive developments. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was enlightening. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having devoted the last 15 years creating and overseeing some of the most well-known series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in receiving him soon. We are all looking forward to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Experience of the New Head

The appointee currently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty series, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Take on the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and obstacles that change every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The choice is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation progresses.