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The renowned publisher has appointed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder 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 departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' disappointing initial reveal last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive a key figure notified team members about this strategic move through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had revealed the necessity for a clearer vision.

Ismailer expressed that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet player expectations.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the complete message from Ismailer's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just finished your meeting - I trust you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most motivated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to persist.”

With your dedication and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It affirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a sharper identity.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve come. You accepted the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a refreshed direction - one that’s positioned to achieve its ambition to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible development you’ve made, I’m excited to announce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he officially joins us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and background in the PVP shooter field is considerable, having dedicated the last 15 years producing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming him in the coming days. We are all eager to persist observing the development of Project ETHOS in the months to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He previously worked at major gaming companies in diverse development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, prior to that, had periods at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

Project Ethos was announced in October 2024 in conjunction with a public demo. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative step forward on the style."

"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Build your hero in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the description explains. "Challenge the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and obstacles that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and hope your team can secure victory? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an announced release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as production continues.