ETHOS: 2K's Revolutionary Hero Shooter Unveiled

Dive into the action with Project ETHOS, a free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K and 31st Union, currently open for playtesting! This article details the game and how to participate.

Project ETHOS Playtest: October 17th - 21st

Project ETHOS: A Fresh F2P Roguelike Hero Shooter

2K Games and 31st Union present Project ETHOS, a free-to-play hero shooter aiming to redefine the genre. Blending the dynamic progression of roguelikes with hero-shooter mechanics, it offers fast-paced, third-person combat.

What distinguishes Project ETHOS? It seamlessly integrates the ever-changing nature of roguelikes with unique hero abilities. Randomized "Evolutions" dynamically alter hero capabilities, forcing strategic adaptation. Transform your sniper into a close-quarters combatant or your support into a solo powerhouse – the possibilities are endless.

Project ETHOS features two core modes:

• Trials: The signature mode, Trials challenges three-player teams against human and AI opponents. Collect cores, strategically choose extraction timing, and invest them in upgrades (Augments) for future runs. Death means losing your cores. Join ongoing matches, but be aware of the match duration and potential for immediate high-level encounters. Earn XP through various means: looting, eliminating enemies, and completing random events.

• Gauntlet: A traditional competitive PvP tournament. Fight through brackets, upgrading your hero with each victory, culminating in a final showdown. Elimination means waiting for the next round.

Accessing the Project ETHOS Community Playtest

Project ETHOS will evolve through regular updates based on community feedback. The playtest, running October 17th-21st, offers access via Twitch: watch participating streams for 30 minutes to receive a key. Alternatively, register on the official website for future playtest opportunities.

The current playtest is limited to the US, Canada, Mexico, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Global release plans are 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 Title

Project ETHOS marks 31st Union's first major release, led by Michael Condrey (Sledgehammer Games, Call of Duty). His experience is evident in the game's design.

2K and 31st Union haven't announced a release date. The success of their bold approach to the hero shooter genre and their unique marketing strategy remains to be seen.