2XKO Hopes to Revolutionize Tag-Team fighting Games

Riot Games’ highly anticipated 2XKO (formerly Project L) is set to revolutionize the tag-team fighting game genre. This article delves into its innovative tag-team mechanics and the recently available playable demo.

2XKO: A Fresh Take on Tag-Team Combat

Duo Play: Redefining 2v2

At EVO 2024 (July 19-21), Riot Games showcased 2XKO’s unique approach to 2v2 combat with exciting gameplay demonstrations. Unlike traditional tag fighters where one player controls both characters, 2XKO introduces "Duo Play," allowing two players to team up, each controlling a champion. This creates thrilling four-player matches (2v2) with distinct roles. Each team features a "Point" character and an "Assist" character. The developers even demonstrated the possibility of 2v1 matchups.

While only one player can be the "Point" at a time, the "Assist" remains crucial:

• Assist Actions: The Point can summon the Assist for special moves.
• Handshake Tag: The Point and Assist instantly switch roles.
• Dynamic Save: The Assist can intervene to break up enemy combos.

Matches are longer than in typical fighting games. Both players must be defeated to win a round, unlike in games like Tekken Tag Tournament. Even defeated champions can still act as Assists.

Beyond character customization, 2XKO introduces "Fuses," synergy options that alter team playstyles. The demo featured five Fuses:

• PULSE: Rapid attacks for devastating combos.
• FURY: Bonus damage and dash cancels below 40% health.
• FREESTYLE: Allows two Handshake Tags in quick succession.
• DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate moves with your partner.
• 2X ASSIST: The Assist can perform multiple actions.

Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted on Twitter (X) that the Fuse system enhances player expression and enables powerful combos, especially for well-coordinated duos.

Champion Selection

The demo featured six playable champions (Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi), each with moves reflecting their League of Legends counterparts. While Jinx and Katarina were shown in earlier promotional material, they were absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest but are confirmed for future inclusion.

2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest

2XKO, a free-to-play fighter joining titles like MultiVersus, is launching on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025. Registration for the Alpha Lab Playtest (August 8-19) is now open. Further details can be found in the linked article.

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