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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently crafting the anticipated third-person action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Transition Follows Mixed Feedback

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the dismissal of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster early showing last fall.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer updated staff about this decision through an internal memo, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a more defined direction.

The president expressed that the developers is now refining the project with a revised approach, aiming to satisfy player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Recruitment

This announcement mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in August, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the full text from Ismailer's memo:

Hello Everyone—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a message, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the pleasure to partner with - and we’re eager for that relationship to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had refinements needed. It revealed the necessity for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the criticism to consideration and revamped the title with a renewed vision - one that’s positioned to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The belief in this project increases every day. To advance the incredible advancement you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the incoming Director of 31st Union. Following some time of conversations, Ben officially joins us on the specified date.

His management and background in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having dedicated the last 15 years developing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in the industry, for example the acclaimed shooter, and lately, the battle royale hit.

Let’s together in greeting him soon. We are all eager to continue seeing the progress of Project ETHOS in the weeks to ahead.

The President

Experience of the Incoming Leader

Brinkman currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at Respawn Entertainment for their flagship title. Brinkman earlier worked at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at other industry leaders.

Title Information and Vision

The upcoming game was revealed in October 2024 alongside a public demo. Then, the developers described the game as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective roguelike hero shooter and an innovative advancement on the category."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the official summary reads. "Face the opponents with fresh skills, challenges, and tests that evolve every round. Will you withdraw carefully with your valuable rewards? Or aim high, gamble everything, and trust your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."

The game has not yet received an confirmed launch window or platforms, but fans can expect further news as development progresses.