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The renowned publisher has welcomed Ben Brinkman from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Management Change Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee takes on the leadership position at 31st Union following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the need for a clearer game identity.

Ismailer stated that the team is now refining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news echoes a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock development group.

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

Team—

I understand you all just finished your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and talented creators we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the last year, you repeatedly show that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a clearer identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to heart and reimagined the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s poised to achieve its potential to our audience.

The belief in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. Following several months of discussions, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and background in the competitive gaming field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most popular franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, Apex Legends.

Let’s together in welcoming Ben next week. We are all eager to persist witnessing the development of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

David

Experience of the New Head

Brinkman currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in diverse production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Concept

The upcoming game was revealed in last year together with a early access event. At the time, the developers presented the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the official summary reads. "Challenge the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that change every match. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The choice is up to you."

Project Ethos lacks an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development progresses.