Riot Games' 2XKO (formerly Project L) is poised to revolutionize the tag-team fighting game genre. This highly anticipated title offers a unique approach to 2v2 combat, setting it apart from traditional tag fighters. Let's delve into its innovative features and the recently concluded playable demo.
Redefining Tag-Team Dynamics with Duo Play
2XKO's innovative Duo Play system, showcased at EVO 2024, allows two players to team up and control one champion each, resulting in thrilling 2v2 showdowns. This isn't limited to even matchups; the demo even featured 2v1 battles.
Within each team, one player assumes the "Point" role, while the other acts as "Assist," offering strategic support through three key mechanics:
- Assist Actions: The Point can call upon the Assist for powerful special moves.
- Handshake Tag: A seamless role swap between Point and Assist.
- Dynamic Save: The Assist can intervene to break up enemy combos.
Unlike some tag fighters where a single knockout ends the match, 2XKO demands both players on a team be defeated to win a round. Even defeated champions can still function as Assists, adding a layer of strategic depth.
Strategic Synergy with the Fuse System
Beyond character selection, 2XKO introduces "Fuses," which modify team playstyles. The demo featured five Fuses, each offering unique strategic advantages:
- PULSE: Rapid attacks for devastating combos.
- FURY: Increased damage and dash cancel below 40% health.
- FREESTYLE: Perform two Handshake Tags in quick succession.
- DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate abilities with your partner's.
- 2X ASSIST: Empower your partner with multiple assist actions.
Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse system's role in amplifying player expression and creating synergistic combos.
A Roster of Familiar Faces (and Some Missing Ones)
The playable demo featured six League of Legends champions: Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi, each with moves reflecting their League of Legends counterparts. While fan favorites like Jinx and Katarina were absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest, their inclusion in future updates has been confirmed.
Join the Alpha Lab Playtest!
2XKO, a free-to-play fighter launching on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025, recently held its Alpha Lab Playtest. While the playtest has concluded, keep an eye out for future testing opportunities.
