2K Games and 31st Union Launch Project ETHOS: A Fresh Hero Shooter Experience

Project ETHOS, a dynamic free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K and 31st Union, is now open for playtesting. Dive into the details of this exciting new game and learn how to join the playtest.

Project ETHOS Playtest Runs from October 17 to October 21

2K’s Project ETHOS Blends F2P Roguelike and Hero Shooter Elements

2K Games and 31st Union have unveiled Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter designed to redefine the genre. This title merges the thrill of roguelike progression with the tactical depth of hero-based combat, delivered through a fast-paced, third-person perspective.

What makes Project ETHOS stand out in the competitive hero-shooter landscape? Insights from Twitch gameplay streams and player feedback highlight its unique blend of roguelike adaptability and hero shooter dynamics. Each match introduces randomized "Evolutions" that modify hero abilities, allowing players to pivot strategies dynamically. For example, a sniper could become a close-range brawler, or a support hero could transform into a lone powerhouse.

Project ETHOS features two core modes. The first, Trials, is the game’s flagship mode, announced on October 17, 2024. In Trials, players collect cores, decide when to extract, and trade them for progression unlocks and ability enhancements. True to roguelike form, death means losing cores—valuable resources for acquiring Augments to boost future runs. To maximize rewards, players must survive and gather as many cores as possible before exiting.

In Trials, teams of three compete against human and AI opponents. Players can join ongoing matches, facing enemies already deep in the action. Match duration is visible before queuing, offering strategic flexibility. However, Trials offers no mercy—players may land near formidable foes right from the start.

If outmatched, players can explore the map to gather cores and XP through loot bins, enemy kills, or random map events, leveling up their hero in the process.

The second mode, Gauntlet, delivers a classic competitive PvP tournament experience. Players progress through brackets, upgrading their hero with each victory, culminating in a final showdown to determine the last team standing. Elimination means waiting for the next round.

How to Participate in the Project ETHOS Playtest

Like other live-service games, Project ETHOS will evolve with regular updates, new heroes, and refinements driven by player input. The current playtest, running from October 17 to October 21, is accessible by watching participating Twitch streams for 30 minutes to earn a playtest key. Players can also register on the game’s official website for future playtest opportunities.

The playtest is currently available only in the United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, with no global release confirmed yet. Server maintenance may affect availability, with the following schedules:

North America
⚫︎ October 17: 10 AM – 11 PM PT
⚫︎ October 18-20: 11 AM – 11 PM PT

Europe
⚫︎ October 17: 6 PM - 1 AM GMT+1
⚫︎ October 18-21: 1 PM - 1 AM GMT+1

Project ETHOS Marks 31st Union’s Debut Major Release

Project ETHOS is 31st Union’s first major project, led by Michael Condrey, co-founder of Sledgehammer Games and a former Call of Duty developer. Condrey’s expertise in multiplayer shooters shapes the innovative design of this title.

2K and 31st Union have yet to announce a release date for Project ETHOS. Whether its fresh take on the hero shooter genre, amplified by Twitch and Discord marketing, will resonate with players remains to be seen.