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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to lead the development team at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Poor Response

The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined vision.

Ismailer noted that the team is now reimagining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

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

Here is the full message from the president's communication:

Team—

I know you all just completed your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to partner with - and we’re excited for that collaboration to persist.”

Through your commitment and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last autumn’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the potential of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the necessity for a more distinct brand.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to deliver on its potential to our players.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of the team. After a period of talks, Ben comes aboard us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s leadership and expertise in the PVP shooter space is vast, having devoted the past decade and a half creating and overseeing some of the most popular franchises in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.

I invite you all in greeting Ben soon. We are all eager to persist seeing the development of the game in the months to come.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. He previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had stints at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was revealed in October 2024 alongside a early access event. Then, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with fresh skills, risks, and obstacles that change every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your squad can achieve the highest spot? The choice is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an official launch window or supported systems, but fans can expect further news as development advances.