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

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

by Thomas Jan 19,2025

Project ETHOS: 2K's Innovative Hero ShooterGet ready for Project ETHOS, a groundbreaking free-to-play roguelike hero shooter from 2K and 31st Union! Currently in playtesting, this exciting title blends roguelike progression with fast-paced hero shooter action. Learn how to participate in the playtest below.

Project ETHOS Playtest: October 17th - 21st

Project ETHOS: A Fresh Take on the Hero Shooter Genre

2K Games and 31st Union introduce Project ETHOS, a free-to-play game designed to redefine the hero shooter experience. Blending the dynamic evolution of roguelikes with unique hero abilities, Project ETHOS delivers a thrilling third-person shooter experience.

What sets Project ETHOS apart? Its innovative "Evolutions" system. Each match features randomized Evolutions that dramatically alter hero capabilities, forcing players to adapt strategies on the fly. Transform your sniper into a close-quarters combatant or your support hero into a solo powerhouse – the possibilities are endless.

Project ETHOS GameplayProject ETHOS features two core game modes:

Trials: This signature mode challenges three-player teams against each other and AI opponents. Collect Cores, strategically choose when to extract, and use your earnings to unlock upgrades and abilities. Death means losing your Cores, adding a high-stakes element to each match. Join ongoing matches or wait for a new one – the choice is yours, but be prepared for intense action from the moment you drop in. Level up by collecting XP shards, eliminating enemies, and completing random events.

Gauntlet: A classic competitive PvP mode. Battle through brackets, upgrading your hero with each victory, until only one team remains. Elimination means waiting for the next round.

How to Participate in the Project ETHOS Playtest

Project ETHOS will evolve based on community feedback. The playtest, running October 17th-21st, offers a chance to shape the game. Earn a playtest key by watching participating Twitch streams for 30 minutes. You can also register 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. Global release plans are yet to be announced. Note that server maintenance will occur; check the official channels for scheduled downtime.

Server Availability:

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