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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently working on the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Follows Poor Feedback

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated staff about this organizational change through an official communication, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now refining the project with a renewed vision, aiming to better meet community desires.

A Pattern of Key Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from Ismailer's memo:

Dear Team—

I know you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative designers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that collaboration to continue.”

Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You took the input to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to deliver on its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in this project strengthens every day. To boost the outstanding advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the latest Lead of the team. After some time of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the recent years creating and leading some of the most popular titles in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben next week. We are all eager to keep seeing the development of the game in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union presented the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, risk it all, and pray your team can secure victory? The choice is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced launch window or platforms, but players can expect more updates as creation advances.