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.
Redefining Tag-Team Combat
2XKO, showcased at EVO 2024, 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 four-player matches, with teams composed of a "Point" character (primary attacker) and an "Assist" character (supportive role). The game even supports 2v1 matchups.
The tag system itself offers three core mechanics:
- Assist Actions: The Point character can call upon the Assist for special moves.
- Handshake Tag: The Point and Assist instantly switch roles.
- Dynamic Save: The Assist can interrupt enemy combos to save the Point.
Unlike some 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.
Strategic Synergies: The Fuse System
Beyond character customization, 2XKO introduces "Fuses," synergy options that modify team playstyles. The demo showcased 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 moves with your partner's.
- 2X ASSIST: Grants the Assist character multiple assist actions.
Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse System's role in boosting player expression and enabling powerful coordinated combos.
Champion Roster and Alpha Playtest
The playable demo featured 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're absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest but confirmed for future inclusion.
2XKO, a free-to-play title for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 (launching in 2025), is currently accepting registrations for its Alpha Lab Playtest (August 8-19). Further details on the playtest and registration can be found in related articles.
