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.
Reimagining Tag-Team Combat
Demonstrated at EVO 2024 (July 19-21), 2XKO 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 champion. This results in thrilling four-player matches, with each team comprising a "Point" character and an "Assist" character. Even 2v1 matches are possible.
The innovative tag system features:
- Assist Actions: The Point character can summon the Assist for special moves.
- Handshake Tag: Instant role swap between Point and Assist.
- Dynamic Save: The Assist can interrupt enemy combos.
Unlike other tag fighters where a single knockout ends the match, 2XKO requires both team members to be defeated. Even defeated champions can still function as Assists.
Beyond character selection, 2XKO introduces "Fuses," which modify team playstyles. The demo showcased five Fuses:
- PULSE: Rapid attacks for devastating combos.
- FURY: Increased damage and dash cancel below 40% health.
- FREESTYLE: Allows two Handshake Tags in a sequence.
- DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate moves with your partner.
- 2X ASSIST: Empower your partner with multiple assists.
Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse system's ability to enhance player expression and create powerful combos, particularly for synchronized duos.
A Roster of League of Legends Champions
The playable demo featured six 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 materials, they are not included in the Alpha Lab Playtest but are confirmed for future release.
Alpha Lab Playtest and Beyond
2XKO joins the free-to-play fighting game arena, launching on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025. The Alpha Lab Playtest ran from August 8th to 19th.
