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 explores its innovative tag-team mechanics and the recently available playable demo.

Redefining Tag-Team Combat

Duo Play: A New Era of 2v2

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 champion. This results in thrilling four-player matches, with two teams of two. Each team designates one player as the "Point" and the other as the "Assist." The developers even demonstrated the possibility of 2v1 matchups.

The game features a dynamic tag system with three core mechanics:

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

Unlike other 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 strategic support.

Strategic Synergies: The Fuse System

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

• PULSE: Rapid attacks unleash 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 enhancing player expression and enabling powerful coordinated attacks.

The Champion Roster

The playable demo featured six League of Legends champions: Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi, each with unique movesets reflecting their in-game abilities. While Jinx and Katarina were absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest, their inclusion in the future has been confirmed.

Alpha Lab Playtest and Beyond

2XKO, a free-to-play title, 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.