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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to lead the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently developing the anticipated third-person roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Shift Follows Mixed Response

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was removed from his post due to the game's disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a distinct vision.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy gamer demands.

Trend of Key Hires

This announcement echoes a comparable move taken by 2K Games in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the complete text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just finished your town hall - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a note, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative developers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”

With your dedication and versatility, particularly over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The player input from last fall’s Project ETHOS demo was enlightening. It affirmed the potential of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It revealed the need for a more distinct vision.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the criticism to heart and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s positioned to fulfill its potential to our audience.

Our confidence in Project ETHOS increases every day. To further the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce the new hire as the new Director of the team. After some time of conversations, he officially joins us on next week.

His leadership and expertise in the competitive gaming space is considerable, having dedicated the recent years developing and leading some of the most well-known titles in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and most recently, Apex Legends.

Please join me in greeting him in the coming days. We are all eager to keep observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

The President

Background of the Incoming Head

Brinkman currently holds the position of senior developer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman previously worked at Treyarch and Activision in various development positions on the Call of Duty series, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a community playtest. Then, 31st Union presented the game as a "no-cost, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution 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 official summary reads. "Take on the rivals with unique powers, challenges, and tests that change every round. Do you leave securely with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your team can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game lacks an announced release date or platforms, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as creation continues.