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.

Reimagining Tag Team Combat

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 four-player matches, with each team having a "Point" character (the primary attacker) and an "Assist" character. Even 2v1 matchups are possible.

The tag system features three key mechanics:

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

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 selection and color customization, 2XKO introduces "Fuses"—team-based modifiers that alter gameplay. The demo featured 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: The Assist character gains access to multiple assist actions.

Game designer Daniel Maniago stated on Twitter (X) that the Fuse System is designed to enhance player expression and facilitate powerful combos, especially for well-coordinated duos.

Champion Roster and Alpha Lab Playtest

The demo featured six playable champions from League of Legends: 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 planned for future inclusion.

2XKO, a free-to-play title, launches on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in 2025. The Alpha Lab Playtest ran from August 8th to 19th, with registration open prior to the event.