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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the development team at their internal studio, which is currently developing the upcoming over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as this innovative game.

Management Shift Follows Poor Reception

The new appointee assumes the role of studio head at the development studio following the exit of previous head the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to the game's lackluster unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed employees about this decision through an internal memo, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had indicated the necessity for a clearer direction.

The president stated that the developers is now reimagining the project with a renewed focus, aiming to better meet player expectations.

A Pattern of Strategic Acquisitions

The news echoes a similar action taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to assist with the beloved franchise development group.

Below is the entire text from the president's announcement:

Hello Everyone—

I know you all just wrapped up your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I am confident in this crew. You all are some of the most dedicated and innovative designers we have had the pleasure to work with - and we’re looking forward for that collaboration to continue.”

Through your commitment and adaptability, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.

The gamer responses from last autumn’s the game playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the necessity for a sharper vision.

It has been motivating to see how far you’ve progressed. You embraced the criticism to mind and revamped Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our fans.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To advance the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new Studio Head of 31st Union. Following several months of talks, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

Ben’s guidance and expertise in the PVP shooter genre is vast, having devoted the recent years developing and leading some of the most recognizable series in gaming, such as the acclaimed shooter, and more recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in welcoming Ben next week. We are all looking forward to keep observing the development of the game in the time to come.

David

Background of the New Head

Brinkman presently serves in the role of senior developer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. Brinkman earlier was employed at Treyarch and Activision in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.

Game Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers portrayed the game as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting evolution on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch states. "Face the competition with new abilities, risks, and challenges that shift every match. Do you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and trust your group can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."

The game has not yet received an official release date or platforms, but players can look forward to additional details as development continues.