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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the development team at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Change Comes After Poor Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing early showing last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure notified staff about this decision through an official communication, which highlighted that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer direction.

Ismailer expressed that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full text from the president's memo:

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that partnership to continue.”

With your dedication and adaptability, particularly over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s Project ETHOS testing phase was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a action-packed game but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the input to mind and overhauled the title with a revitalized vision - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To further the remarkable progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome the new hire as the latest Director of the team. Following several months of discussions, Ben starts with us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the competitive gaming space is extensive, having devoted the last 15 years producing and overseeing some of the most recognizable titles in gaming, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all excited to keep observing the progress of the game in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the New Leader

The appointee presently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Information and Vision

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a community playtest. Then, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling step forward on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch states. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that change every session. Do you leave securely with your hard-earned loot? Or take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your squad can secure victory? The decision is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or supported systems, but players can anticipate further news as production advances.