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The renowned publisher has secured Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman takes on the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had shown the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Recruitment

The news mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete content from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a update, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the input to consideration and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and experience in the competitive gaming field is vast, having spent the past decade and a half producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all excited to continue seeing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, risk it all, and hope your team can achieve the highest spot? The option is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or platforms, but fans can expect additional details as creation progresses.