Riot Games' upcoming fighting game 2XKO, initially announced as Project L in 2024, is set to enter its closed beta on September 9, 2025. After years of development that included acquiring Radiant Entertainment in 2016 and multiple design shifts, the game now features 2v2 gameplay. Developers Tom Cannon and Shaun Rivera discussed the challenges of managing player expectations following the game's early reveal, acknowledging the lengthy development process has led to confusion and impatience among fans. Despite this, they express confidence in the open development approach, allowing for player feedback to shape the game. This strategy aims to create a beginner-friendly experience, but the developers recognize the anticipation surrounding the game's release, and they are excited to share it with players soon.
Was the reveal of 2XKO too early?The developers at Riot Games believe the early reveal was necessary to gauge player reactions, which in turn helped refine the game's direction. While it has stirred impatience among fans, it contributed to greater insights and development momentum.
2XKO, formerly known as Project L, is part of Riot's expansion beyond its flagship title League of Legends. The game seeks to engage both casual players and veterans with its 2v2 mechanics, marrying competitive depth and accessibility, thus establishing a unique identity in the crowded fighting game genre.
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Honestly, Riot’s open dev approach with 2XKO is refreshing, even if the long wait tested everyone’s patience—kinda like waiting for a League champ rework but with way more hype. The 2v2 setup sounds chaotic in the best way, and if anyone can make fighting games feel welcoming, it’s Riot.
Also, low-key hoping for some wild crossover skins—imagine a fighting game where Yasuo and Jinx team up *and* look fabulous doing it. The beta can’t come soon enough
Early reveals can be a double-edged sword, but Riot's transparency with 2XKO feels like a rare win—keeping fans engaged while actually using their feedback to shape the game. That said, the wait since Project L's first tease has been brutal, so here's hoping the beta delivers the hype.
The 2v2 twist could be a game-changer for the fighting genre, especially with Riot's knack for making complex mechanics feel approachable. Just hope the balancing doesn’t turn into a League of Legends-level headache for the devs.