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

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

Author : Matthew Jan 20,2025

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

Get ready for Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K Games and 31st Union! This innovative title blends roguelike progression with hero shooter mechanics, offering a unique and fast-paced third-person experience. A recent playtest provided a sneak peek, and now you can learn how to participate in future opportunities.

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 game aiming to redefine the hero shooter landscape. It cleverly combines the dynamic adaptation of roguelikes with the distinct hero abilities of hero shooters. Randomized "Evolutions" dramatically alter hero capabilities mid-match, encouraging strategic flexibility. Turn your sniper into a close-quarters combatant or transform 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 against both human and AI opponents. Collect Cores, strategically choose your extraction time, and use them to unlock upgrades (Augments) for future matches. Dying means losing your Cores, so survival and strategic Core collection are paramount. Matches can be joined in progress, offering a dynamic and unpredictable experience.

  • Gauntlet: A classic 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: Trials Mode

How to Participate in Future Playtests

Project ETHOS will evolve based on community feedback, with regular updates and new content planned. While the initial playtest (October 17th-21st) is concluded, future opportunities exist. Watch participating Twitch streams for 30 minutes to earn a playtest key, or register on the official website for a chance to join future playtests.

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 schedules are as follows:

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