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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Management Shift Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's lackluster early showing last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now overhauling the project with a renewed vision, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the pleasure to collaborate with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was informative. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its ambition to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Studio Head of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and leading some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all looking forward to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch reads. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that change every round. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, gamble everything, and trust your squad can earn top ranking? The option is in your hands."

Project Ethos lacks an official debut schedule or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as production advances.