ETHOS: 2k's Innovative Twist on Hero Shooters

2K Games and 31st Union's innovative free-to-play roguelike hero shooter, Project ETHOS, is now open for playtesting! Discover more about this exciting title and how to participate.

Project ETHOS Playtest: October 17th - 21st

Project ETHOS: A Fresh Take on the Hero Shooter Genre

2K Games and 31st Union introduce Project ETHOS, a free-to-play hero shooter aiming to redefine the genre. Blending the dynamic progression of roguelikes with the strategic depth of hero shooters, Project ETHOS delivers fast-paced, third-person action.

What distinguishes Project ETHOS? Gameplay footage and player feedback reveal a unique blend of constant adaptation and distinct hero abilities. Randomized "Evolutions" dramatically alter hero capabilities mid-match, forcing players to improvise and adapt their strategies. Transform your sniper into a close-quarters combatant or your support into a solo powerhouse – the possibilities are endless.

Project ETHOS features two core game modes:

• Trials: This signature mode challenges three-player teams against both AI and human opponents. Collect Cores, strategically choose extraction points, and cash them in for upgrades. Death means losing your Cores, adding a high-stakes element to each match. Join ongoing matches or wait for a new one; the match timer is visible before joining. Expect intense, unpredictable encounters from the outset. Earn XP through various means: eliminating enemies, looting XP shards, and completing random events.

• Gauntlet: A classic competitive PvP tournament mode. Players battle through brackets, upgrading their hero with each victory, culminating in a final showdown. Elimination means waiting for the next round.

Accessing the Project ETHOS Playtest

Project ETHOS will continuously evolve through regular updates based on community feedback. The playtest, running from October 17th to 21st, offers access by watching participating Twitch streams for 30 minutes to receive a key. Alternatively, register on the official website for future playtest opportunities.

The current playtest is limited to players in the US, Canada, Mexico, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Global release plans are yet to be announced. Server maintenance will occur; check the following schedule:

North America:

• October 17th: 10 AM – 11 PM PT
• October 18th-20th: 11 AM – 11 PM PT

Europe:

• October 17th: 6 PM - 1 AM GMT+1
• October 18th-21st: 1 PM - 1 AM GMT+1

31st Union's Debut Title

Project ETHOS marks 31st Union's first major release, led by Michael Condrey, co-founder of Sledgehammer Games and Call of Duty veteran. Condrey's expertise is evident in Project ETHOS's design.

2K and 31st Union haven't revealed a release date. The success of their unique approach to the crowded hero shooter market and their Twitch/Discord-focused marketing strategy remains to be seen.