Fighting games are often seen as a niche segment within the broader video gaming landscape, yet they continue to be treated as if they occupy a mainstream position. The challenge lies in the genre’s dual identity: while there is a desire for these games to attract a general audience, there is also an expectation that they compete at high levels, akin to esports. This ongoing contradiction impacts their ability to reach new players and break away from established titles that have dominated the scene for years.
Riot Games aims to change this perception with its new title, 2XKO. The game’s development is rooted in the idea of combining competitive elements with accessibility for newcomers, leveraging the company’s extensive roster of established characters from the League of Legends universe. Riot possesses the resources necessary to position 2XKO as a sport from its inception, but whether this is sufficient for the game to thrive remains to be seen.
The journey to 2XKO’s release has been a lengthy one, beginning with its initial announcement in 2019 under the working title Project L. Despite limited information being shared for years, anticipation grew until key details were finally revealed on February 22, 2024, including its unique 2 versus 2 format that allows players to swap characters seamlessly. The name, which stands out appealingly in English, hints at the game’s ambitions.
On October 7, 2025, 2XKO entered a closed beta, quickly becoming a talking point among both casual gamers and industry experts. Despite not being officially released, it received a nomination for Best Fighting Game at The Games Awards 2025, highlighting its immediate impact, though it ultimately lost to Tekken 8.
Now, with 2XKO officially available for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, players can explore its roster of 13 iconic characters from Runeterra. Early impressions indicate significant potential for the game, largely due to Riot’s backing, which promises financial support for organizing competitions without establishing a formal professional league, in contrast to their approach with titles like League of Legends.
Additionally, 2XKO aims for accessibility. Although the game’s tutorials may leave something to be desired, its user-friendly assistance systems can help newcomers engage more easily. The game’s free-to-play model and familiar character cast could help it attract a broader audience beyond traditional fighting game fans.
However, challenges remain. The monetization model, consistent with Riot’s typical approach, features expensive cosmetic items. Some players may find the game lacks the depth compared to competitors, raising concerns that it may not be attractive enough for dedicated professional players. Furthermore, the transition from using assistance features to more skilled gameplay can be daunting, and the tutorials do not adequately address this crucial hurdle.
Only time will tell whether these issues will hinder 2XKO’s success. The potential for a vibrant competitive scene exists due to Riot’s investment and the game’s capacity to engage casual players through its familiar characters and straightforward mechanics. In this respect, 2XKO is poised for a remarkable launch, raising hopes that it can redefine the boundaries of fighting games in the gaming community.