Home News 2K Releases Project ETHOS - Hero Shooter Innovation

2K Releases Project ETHOS - Hero Shooter Innovation

by Charlotte Jan 17,2025

Project ETHOS: A Bold New Hero Shooter from 2K Games

Get ready for Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K and 31st Union! This exciting new title is currently open for playtesting. Read on to discover more about Project ETHOS and how you can participate.

Project ETHOS Playtest: October 17th - 21st

Project ETHOS: A Fresh Take on the Hero Shooter Genre

2K Games and 31st Union have joined forces to deliver Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter aiming to redefine the genre. Blending the dynamic progression of roguelikes with the hero-based combat of hero shooters, Project ETHOS offers fast-paced, third-person action.

What makes Project ETHOS stand out? It seamlessly integrates the constant adaptation of roguelikes with unique hero abilities. Randomized "Evolutions" dynamically alter hero capabilities, forcing players to adjust strategies on the fly. Transform your sniper into a close-quarters combatant, or turn a support character into a solo powerhouse—the possibilities are endless!

Project ETHOS Gameplay

Project ETHOS features two core game modes:

  • Trials: This signature mode challenges teams of three players against each other and AI opponents. Collect Cores, strategically choose when to extract, and use them to unlock new abilities and progression. Death means losing your Cores, adding a high-stakes element to each match. Join ongoing matches and strategize your approach; match duration is visible before joining.

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

Project ETHOS Core Gameplay

How to Join the Project ETHOS Playtest

Project ETHOS will incorporate regular updates and community feedback. The playtest, running from October 17th to 21st, offers access via Twitch drops. Watch participating streams for 30 minutes to receive a playtest key. You can also register on the official website for future playtest opportunities.

Current playtest regions: United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Global release plans are yet to be announced. Server maintenance periods will apply:

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

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