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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Follows Mixed Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a more defined vision.

The president expressed that the developers is now overhauling the project with a revised approach, aiming to address community desires.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.

Here is the full content from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I expressed the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most driven and creative designers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to continue.”

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

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to consideration and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our audience.

The belief in this project strengthens every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the new Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of discussions, he comes aboard us on next week.

His guidance and experience in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having spent the recent years producing and leading some of the most well-known titles in the industry, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the evolution of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description states. "Challenge the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and trust your team can achieve the highest spot? The decision is in your hands."

Project Ethos does not have an announced debut schedule or supported systems, but players can expect further news as production advances.