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The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to direct the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman takes on the leadership position at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster early showing last fall.

On Wednesday, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed staff about this strategic move through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the need for a clearer game identity.

The president stated that the team is now overhauling the project with a refreshed approach, aiming to satisfy community desires.

Trend of Key Acquisitions

The news follows a similar move taken by the publisher in the summer, when they hired an industry veteran from Blizzard to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Below is the entire content from the president's communication:

Dear Team—

I understand you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Previously I shared you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and innovative designers we have had the chance to collaborate with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”

Through your commitment and flexibility, particularly over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last fall’s the game testing phase was revealing. It validated the appeal of a action-packed game but made clear we still had improvements to make. It uncovered the necessity for a clearer brand.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You took the feedback to heart and revamped the title with a renewed direction - one that’s ready to achieve its ambition to our players.

Our confidence in this project increases every day. To advance the remarkable progress you’ve made, I’m excited to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Director of 31st Union. Following several months of conversations, Ben starts with us on Monday, October 20.

Ben’s management and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is extensive, having devoted the recent years creating and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

I invite you all in welcoming Ben in the coming days. We are all eager to continue witnessing the progress of the game in the time to ahead.

The President

Background of the Incoming Leader

The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, before that, had assignments at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in last year alongside a public demo. Initially, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to match your preferred approach," the description reads. "Challenge the competition with fresh skills, stakes, and obstacles that change every session. Will you withdraw carefully with your hard-earned loot? Alternatively aim high, risk it all, and hope your squad can earn top ranking? The choice is yours."

The game lacks an confirmed release date or platforms, but players can look forward to additional details as development continues.