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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Poor Response

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at 31st Union following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer notified staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a distinct direction.

Ismailer noted that the developers is now overhauling Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

Trend of Strategic Recruitment

The news echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in August, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full content from the president's communication:

Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your town hall - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Last time I sent you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the chance to work with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Given your hard work and versatility, particularly over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to fulfill its promise to our players.

The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To boost the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce the new hire as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, he starts with us on the specified date.

Ben’s guidance and experience in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having spent the past decade and a half producing and managing some of the most popular series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to continue witnessing the progress of the game in the weeks to follow.

The President

Experience of the New Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise series, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in last year in conjunction with a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Take on the rivals with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every session. Will you safely extract with your hard-earned loot? Or aim high, put it on the line, and trust your team can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

The game does not have an official release date or platforms, but players can look forward to further news as creation advances.