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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' underwhelming initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that playtesting had revealed the requirement for a more defined direction.

The president noted that the team is now reimagining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar step taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete text from the president's announcement:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I sent you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that partnership to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game playtest was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the input to heart and overhauled Project ETHOS with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to fulfill its potential to our players.

The belief in Project ETHOS increases every day. To boost the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the latest Lead of the team. Following a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.

His leadership and experience in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently holds the role of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Information and Concept

The upcoming game was unveiled in October 2024 together with a community playtest. Initially, 31st Union described the game as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the style."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary states. "Face the opponents with unique powers, risks, and tests that evolve every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The decision is yours."

Project Ethos lacks an official release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as development advances.