Riot Games’ highly anticipated 2XKO (formerly Project L) is set to revolutionize tag-team fighting games. This article explores its innovative tag-team mechanics and the recently available playable demo.
Reimagining Tag-Team Combat
Duo Play: A Four-Player Experience
Demonstrated at EVO 2024 (July 19-21), 2XKO introduces Duo Play, a unique twist on the 2v2 format. Instead of one player controlling both characters, two players team up, each controlling a champion. This creates thrilling four-player matches, with teams composed of a "Point" character and an "Assist" character. Even 2v1 matchups 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 some tag fighters where a single knockout ends the match, in 2XKO, both characters must be defeated to win a round. However, defeated champions remain active as Assists, providing strategic support.
Fuses: Customizable Synergies
Beyond choosing character colors, 2XKO introduces "Fuses"—synergy options that dramatically alter team playstyles. The demo showcased five Fuses:
- PULSE: Rapid attacks for devastating combos.
- FURY: Increased damage and special dash cancel below 40% health.
- FREESTYLE: Perform two Handshake Tags in quick succession.
- DOUBLE DOWN: Combine ultimate moves with your partner.
- 2X ASSIST: Empower your partner with multiple assist actions.
Game designer Daniel Maniago highlighted the Fuse System’s aim to amplify player expression and facilitate powerful combos, especially for well-coordinated duos.
Champion Selection
The demo featured six playable champions (Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, and Illaoi), each with moves reflecting their League of Legends counterparts. While Jinx and Katarina were previously shown, they're not included in the Alpha Lab Playtest but are planned for future inclusion.
Alpha Lab Playtest
