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
2XKO, showcased at EVO 2024 (July 19-21), introduces a unique twist on the traditional 2v2 format with its "Duo Play" system. Instead of one player controlling both characters, two players team up, each controlling a single champion. This results in four-player matches, with each team consisting of a "Point" character (primary attacker) and an "Assist" character. The developers even demonstrated the possibility of 2v1 matches.
The tag system incorporates three key mechanics:
- Assist Actions: The Point character can summon the Assist for special moves.
- Handshake Tag: The Point and Assist instantly swap roles.
- Dynamic Save: The Assist can interrupt enemy combos.
Unlike many 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 significantly alter team playstyles. 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 abilities with your partner.
- 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.
Champion Selection
The demo showcased 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 previously shown, they are absent from the Alpha Lab Playtest but confirmed for future inclusion.
Alpha Lab Playtest
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 can be found in the linked article.
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