The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently developing the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.
The new appointee steps into the role of studio head at 31st Union following the departure of previous head Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to the game's underwhelming early showing last fall.
Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed employees about this strategic move through an official communication, which highlighted that early feedback sessions had shown the need for a clearer direction.
The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed focus, aiming to satisfy player expectations.
This announcement mirrors a similar action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they recruited Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to work on the beloved franchise development group.
Below is the entire message from the president's announcement:
Team—
I know you all just completed your meeting - I trust you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the recent updates. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I am confident in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and innovative developers we have had the opportunity to work with - and we’re looking forward for that relationship to persist.”
With your dedication and versatility, especially over the last year, you consistently demonstrate that.
The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was informative. It validated the appeal of a roguelike shooter but made clear we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the need for a sharper brand.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You embraced the feedback to mind and reimagined the title with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to achieve its promise to our fans.
The belief in this project grows every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I am thrilled to introduce the new hire as the incoming Studio Head of the team. Following several months of conversations, he officially joins us on the specified date.
His management and expertise in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the recent years creating and leading some of the most well-known series in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, the battle royale hit.
I invite you all in receiving Ben soon. We are all looking forward to persist observing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to follow.
David
The appointee presently holds the role of senior developer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in various production roles on the iconic franchise games, and, earlier in his career, had periods at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a public demo. Initially, 31st Union presented the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person roguelike hero shooter and an thrilling evolution on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in real-time to suit your personal playstyle," the description reads. "Challenge the rivals with new abilities, challenges, and challenges that change every session. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively go big, gamble everything, and hope your group can earn top ranking? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos does not have an announced release date or supported systems, but enthusiasts can expect additional details as production continues.
Rashid Al-Mansoori is a tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering innovations and digital transformations in the Middle East.
