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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently working on the upcoming third-person action-packed title known as Project Ethos.

Leadership Change Comes After Mixed Feedback

The new appointee steps into the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this decision through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

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

Trend of Strategic Acquisitions

The news follows a comparable move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the full message from the president's announcement:

Team—

I understand you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the positive developments. Previously I shared you all a message, I stated the following: “I am confident in this group. You all are some of the most driven and creative developers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game demo was revealing. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had improvements to make. It revealed the requirement for a more distinct brand.

The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the input to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its promise to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible advancement you’ve made, It is a pleasure to welcome the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After a period of talks, he comes aboard us on the specified date.

His guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter field is vast, having devoted the last 15 years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all looking forward to continue observing the development of the game in the time to follow.

David

Background of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman presently serves in the role of executive producer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the iconic franchise series, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 together with a early access event. Initially, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the category."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the game's pitch explains. "Challenge the opponents with new abilities, risks, and tests that shift every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Or go big, risk it all, and pray your group can secure victory? The option is yours."

Project Ethos does not have an announced launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production progresses.