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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Transition Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the dismissal of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure updated employees about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had indicated the requirement for a more defined vision.

The president noted that the team is now refining Project Ethos with a renewed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.

A Pattern of Key Acquisitions

This announcement mirrors a similar move taken by the publisher in August, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

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

Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as thrilled as I am with the good news. Previously I shared you all a update, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re looking forward for that partnership to persist.”

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

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the requirement for a clearer identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You accepted the input to mind and revamped the title with a revitalized direction - one that’s positioned to fulfill its promise to our audience.

Our confidence in this project grows every day. To boost the remarkable development you’ve made, I am thrilled to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of the team. Following a period of talks, he starts with us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is considerable, having dedicated the recent years producing and leading some of the most recognizable series in the industry, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in receiving Ben soon. We are all excited to persist seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to follow.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Concept

Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Initially, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary states. "Take on the opponents with fresh skills, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively take a risk, risk it all, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The decision is in your hands."

The game does not have an official debut schedule or supported systems, but fans can look forward to additional details as creation advances.