Project ETHOS is 2k Games' Bold Take on Hero Shooters

Get ready for Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K Games and 31st Union, now in playtest! This article details the game 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 have launched Project ETHOS, a free-to-play hero shooter aiming to redefine the genre. Blending roguelike progression with fast-paced, third-person hero-based combat, ETHOS offers a unique experience.

What distinguishes Project ETHOS? Gameplay footage and player feedback reveal a dynamic system of randomized "Evolutions." These alter hero abilities mid-match, forcing strategic adaptation. Transform a sniper into a close-quarters combatant, or turn a support hero into a solo powerhouse – the possibilities are endless.

Project ETHOS features two core modes:

• Trials: The signature mode, Trials features 3v3 matches against both AI and human opponents. Players collect Cores, strategically choosing when to extract and cash them in for upgrades (Augments). Death means losing accumulated Cores, adding a thrilling risk/reward element. Join ongoing matches, but be aware of the match duration and potential for immediate high-level encounters. Earn experience (XP) by collecting XP shards, eliminating enemies, and completing map events.

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

How to Participate in the Project ETHOS Playtest

Project ETHOS will evolve through regular updates based on community feedback. The playtest, running October 17th to 21st, offers access via Twitch: watch participating streams for 30 minutes to earn a playtest key. Alternatively, sign up 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. A global release date is yet to be announced. Server maintenance will occur; check the official channels for schedules:

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