Riot Games' highly anticipated 2XKO (formerly Project L) is set to revolutionize the tag-team fighting game genre. This article explores its innovative tag-team mechanics and the recently available playable demo.
Reimagining Tag-Team Combat
2XKO, showcased at EVO 2024 (July 19-21), introduces "Duo Play," a unique twist on the traditional 2v2 format. Instead of one player controlling both characters, two players team up, each controlling a single champion. This results in four-player matches, with two teams of two. Each team designates one player as the "Point" and the other as the "Assist." The game even allows for 2v1 matchups, where one player controls a duo.
The tag system incorporates three core mechanics:
- Assist Actions: The Point character can summon the Assist for a special move.
- Handshake Tag: The Point and Assist instantly switch roles.
- Dynamic Save: The Assist can interrupt an opponent's combo.
Unlike many tag fighters where a single knockout ends the match, 2XKO requires both players on a team to be defeated. However, defeated champions remain active as Assists, providing support to their teammate.
Strategic Synergy: The Fuse System
Beyond character customization, 2XKO introduces "Fuses," pre-match synergy options that alter team playstyles. The demo featured five Fuses:
- PULSE: Rapid attacks trigger devastating combos.
- FURY: Below 40% health, increased damage and special dash cancel.
- FREESTYLE: Allows two Handshake Tags in quick succession.
- DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate abilities with your partner.
- 2X ASSIST: Grants the Assist more frequent actions.
Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse System's role in enhancing player expression and facilitating powerful coordinated attacks.
Champion Selection
The playable demo showcased six champions: Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi, each with movesets reflecting their League of Legends counterparts. While Jinx and Katarina were previously shown, they were absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest, but their inclusion is confirmed for the future.
Alpha Lab Playtest
2XKO, a free-to-play title launching on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025, held an Alpha Lab Playtest from August 8th to 19th. Registration details were available via the associated article. This innovative tag-team fighter is poised to make a significant impact on the fighting game landscape.
