2K Games and 31st Union's innovative free-to-play roguelike hero shooter, Project ETHOS, is now open for playtesting! Discover more about this upcoming title and how to participate.
Project ETHOS Playtest: October 17th - 21st
Project ETHOS: A Free-to-Play Roguelike Hero Shooter Revolution
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 intense hero-based combat in a fast-paced, third-person perspective, Project ETHOS offers a unique gameplay experience.
What distinguishes Project ETHOS? Gameplay footage and player feedback reveal a thrilling blend of roguelike adaptation and distinct hero abilities. Randomized "Evolutions" dynamically alter hero capabilities, forcing strategic adjustments mid-match. Transform your sniper into a close-quarters combatant or empower your support hero into a solo powerhouse.
Project ETHOS features two primary modes:
-
Trials: This signature mode 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 results in Core loss, emphasizing survival and strategic resource management. Join ongoing matches or view remaining 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.
Accessing the Project ETHOS Community Playtest
Project ETHOS will continuously evolve with community feedback. The playtest, running from October 17th to 21st, offers access via participating Twitch streams (30 minutes of viewing for a key). Sign up on the official website for future playtest opportunities.
Current playtest access is limited to the United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Global release plans are yet to be announced. Server maintenance will occur; check the following times for 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 Title
Project ETHOS marks 31st Union's inaugural major release, led by Michael Condrey, co-founder of Sledgehammer Games and Call of Duty veteran. Condrey's expertise is evident in Project ETHOS's multiplayer design.
While a release date remains unannounced, 2K and 31st Union's unique approach to marketing and gameplay innovation will determine the success of this bold entry into the competitive hero shooter market.
