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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the upcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing initial reveal last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this organizational change through an internal memo, which stressed that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a comparable step taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's announcement:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just completed your town hall - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Last time I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that partnership to endure.”

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

The gamer responses from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It validated the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the need for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to mind and overhauled Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to fulfill its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To further the remarkable development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. Following several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving him soon. We are all excited to persist seeing the development of the game in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman previously was employed at major gaming companies in diverse production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and tests that evolve every session. Do you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can expect additional details as production continues.