In a landscape increasingly populated by ambitious contenders, the tag-team fighting game genre is about to welcome a formidable new challenger. Riot Games, long synonymous with the colossal success of League of Legends, is poised to unleash its highly anticipated fighter, 2XKO (formerly known under the working title Project L), into a crucial closed beta phase this September. This isn`t just another entry; it`s Riot`s definitive statement in the 2D fighting arena, backed by a universe teeming with beloved characters.
The Gates Open: 2XKO Closed Beta Arrives
The moment many fighting game enthusiasts and League of Legends lore fans have awaited is finally here. Riot Games has officially announced that the closed beta for 2XKO will commence on September 9th on PC. While console players on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 will need to exercise a touch more patience, with their versions slated for a “later date,” Riot has thoughtfully included cross-progression. This means that early adopters on PC can seamlessly transfer their hard-earned progress and inventory to their preferred console once those versions become available, ensuring a smooth transition rather than a disjointed experience. A rather considerate move, wouldn`t you agree?
Vi Joins the Fray: A Powerhouse Unveiled
Adding significant weight to the beta experience, the iconic Piltovan enforcer, Vi, has been confirmed as the eighth playable character on the roster. Known for her powerful gauntlets and no-nonsense attitude from both League of Legends and the critically acclaimed Netflix series Arcane: A League of Legends Story, Vi`s inclusion is a strategic nod to the vast narrative potential within the Runeterra universe. Her combat style, characterized by aggressive close-quarters brawling, promises to add a dynamic layer to the tag-team mechanics, offering players a truly impactful character to master.
For those eager to get a hands-on preview, a new playable demo build featuring Vi will be showcased at Evo 2025, scheduled for August 1st-3rd in the vibrant fighting game hub of Las Vegas. This public demonstration at the world`s largest fighting game tournament serves as a clear indication of Riot`s confidence in 2XKO`s competitive viability.
A Persistent Beta: Bridging the Gap to Launch
In a move that distinguishes 2XKO`s beta from many conventional, time-limited tests, Riot has confirmed that once the servers go live for the closed beta in September, they will remain operational continuously right up until the game`s official launch. This “live-service beta” approach allows for ongoing feedback, continuous iteration, and a more organic development cycle, fostering a persistent community engagement that could prove invaluable. For those who participated in previous Alpha Lab sessions, automatic entry into the PC closed beta is guaranteed. New hopefuls can still sign up via the game`s official website.
Riot`s Vision for the Fighting Game Future
The entry of 2XKO into the market marks a pivotal moment for Riot Games. Moving beyond its MOBA roots, the company has steadily expanded its portfolio, demonstrating a clear ambition to become a multifaceted gaming powerhouse. With 2XKO, they are not merely dabbling; they are investing significantly in a genre known for its passionate, dedicated, and often discerning player base. The emphasis on high-quality animation, intuitive mechanics, and seamless cross-platform functionality underscores a commitment to delivering a polished and competitive experience from day one.
While an official release date for 2XKO on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 remains under wraps, the imminent closed beta represents a critical stride forward. It invites players to step into the vibrant, action-packed world of Runeterra through a fresh lens, proving that sometimes, the best way to enter a crowded room is by simply being undeniably good.
Callum Darby