The renowned publisher has welcomed a seasoned producer from Respawn Entertainment to oversee the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder action-packed title known as Project Ethos.
Leadership Change Follows Lukewarm Reception
The new appointee assumes the leadership position at the development studio following the exit of previous head Michael Condrey, who was removed from his post due to Project Ethos' underwhelming early showing last autumn.
Recently, the company's top executive a key figure informed staff about this strategic move through an official communication, which emphasized that early feedback sessions had revealed the need for a distinct game identity.
The president expressed that the team is now refining the project with a refreshed vision, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
Trend of Strategic Acquisitions
This announcement echoes a similar step taken by the publisher in August, when they brought on Rod Fergusson from Blizzard to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Below is the full content from Ismailer's communication:
Team—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I trust you’re as thrilled as I am with the recent updates. Previously I sent you all a note, I expressed the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most dedicated and creative designers we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re excited for that relationship to endure.”
Given your hard work and versatility, especially over the past twelve months, you consistently demonstrate that.
The community feedback from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the appeal of a action-packed game but told us we still had refinements needed. It highlighted the requirement for a clearer vision.
It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the input to consideration and reimagined the title with a revitalized goal - one that’s ready to deliver on its ambition to our players.
The belief in this project increases every day. To boost the incredible progress you’ve made, I’m excited to announce the new hire as the latest Studio Head of 31st Union. After several months of discussions, he starts with us on Monday, October 20.
His leadership and experience in the competitive gaming space is vast, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most recognizable series in gaming, including the acclaimed shooter, and lately, Apex Legends.
I invite you all in receiving Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist seeing the evolution of the game in the months to come.
The President
Experience of the New Head
The appointee currently holds the position of executive producer and production lead at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously was employed at Treyarch and Activision in multiple development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at other industry leaders.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was unveiled in October 2024 in conjunction with a early access event. Then, 31st Union portrayed the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an thrilling evolution on the genre."
"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. "Face the rivals with fresh skills, stakes, and challenges that shift every match. Will you leave securely with your valuable rewards? Alternatively take a risk, put it on the line, and pray your team can secure victory? The decision is up to you."
Project Ethos has not yet received an official launch window or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to more updates as development continues.
