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.

Redefining Tag-Team Combat

2XKO, showcased at EVO 2024 (July 19-21), introduces a unique "Duo Play" system. Unlike traditional tag fighters where one player controls both characters, 2XKO allows two players to team up, each controlling a champion. This results in thrilling 2v2 matches, or even 2v1 showdowns where a single player manages two champions. Within each team, one player assumes the "Point" role, while the other takes on the "Assist" role.

The innovative tag system features three core mechanics:

• Assist Actions: The Point character can summon the Assist for a special move.
• Handshake Tag: The Point and Assist instantly swap roles.
• Dynamic Save: The Assist can intervene to break up an opponent's combo.

Unlike some tag fighters where a single knockout ends the match, 2XKO requires both players on a team to be defeated to win a round. Even defeated champions remain active as Assists, providing strategic support.

Strategic Synergy with "Fuses"

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

• PULSE: Rapid button presses unleash devastating combos.
• FURY: Below 40% health, gain bonus damage and a special dash cancel.
• FREESTYLE: Allows two Handshake Tags in quick succession.
• DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate moves with your partner's.
• 2X ASSIST: Grants your partner multiple assist actions.

Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse System's role in "amplifying player expression" and creating devastating combos, particularly for well-coordinated duos.

Champion Selection

The demo featured six playable champions from League of Legends: Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi, each with unique movesets reflecting their original abilities. While Jinx and Katarina were previously shown, they were absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest but are confirmed for future inclusion.

Alpha Lab Playtest

2XKO, a free-to-play title joining games like MultiVersus, launches on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025. The Alpha Lab Playtest ran from August 8th to 19th, with registration details available online.