2K Games unveils ETHOS, a revolutionary hero shooter

2K Games and 31st Union's innovative free-to-play roguelike hero shooter, Project ETHOS, is currently 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 have joined forces to deliver Project ETHOS, a free-to-play hero shooter aiming to redefine the genre. This fast-paced, third-person shooter blends the dynamic progression of roguelikes with the strategic depth of hero-based combat.

What distinguishes Project ETHOS? Gameplay footage and player feedback reveal a thrilling blend of constant adaptation and unique hero abilities. Randomized "Evolutions" dramatically alter hero capabilities mid-match, forcing players to adjust strategies on the fly. 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: The developers' signature mode. Collect cores, strategically choose your extraction point, and invest your earnings to unlock upgrades and abilities. Death means losing your cores, adding a high-stakes element to each run. Teams of three battle against both AI and human opponents in dynamic matches that can be joined at any point. Check the remaining match time before joining.

• 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.

Leveling up occurs through various methods: collecting XP shards, eliminating enemies, and completing map events.

How to Participate in the Project ETHOS Playtest

Project ETHOS will receive ongoing updates, new heroes, and balance adjustments based on community feedback. The playtest, running from October 17th to 21st, is accessible by watching participating Twitch streams for 30 minutes to earn a playtest key. Alternatively, sign up on the official website for a chance to participate in future playtests.

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 during the following times:

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 veteran Call of Duty developer. Condrey's expertise is evident in Project ETHOS's polished multiplayer design.

2K and 31st Union haven't yet announced 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.