2XKO Director Eyes Street Fighter’s Legacy but Stresses Earning the Spot
The director of 2XKO, the upcoming free-to-play League of Legends fighting game, aspires for it to join the ranks of legendary fighting games such as Street Fighter. However, Shaun Rivera, the game’s director, recognizes that the title must carve its own place through quality and player trust rather than relying solely on the popularity of the League of Legends franchise.
Introduction: Ambitions Beyond Brand Recognition
2XKO, a tag-team fighting game featuring beloved League of Legends champions, is generating buzz for its ambitious goal: not just to be another character-themed fighter, but to become a mainstay in the competitive fighting game scene.
Rivera, speaking in Edge Magazine’s issue 215, expressed hopes for 2XKO to share the spotlight with fighting game titans like Street Fighter by EVO 2026, the premier esports event dedicated to fighting games.
Key Points on 2XKO’s Development and Market Position
1. Earning Respect Through Gameplay Excellence
- Player trust is paramount. Rivera emphasizes that 2XKO must “earn that spot” by developing a game players genuinely enjoy and believe in.
- Continuous improvement is a commitment. The development team is dedicated to ongoing refinements to keep gameplay fresh and engaging over time.
- Not just a League of Legends reskin. Following an “awkward” initial reveal in 2019, the team went back into R&D mode to add innovative elements and avoid simply repurposing existing fighting game mechanics.
2. Development Journey and Current Status
- 2XKO is currently in Closed Beta on PC, gathering player feedback to shape its final form.
- The game is slated for release later in 2025 on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.
3. Competitive Fighting Game Landscape
Street Fighter remains an iconic leader in the genre, but newer titles like Guilty Gear Strive and Tekken 8 are reshaping the competitive fighting game environment. A 2024 market report notes that fighting games generated over $600 million in global revenue in 2023, with a growing audience demand for innovative and community-driven experiences.
Why 2XKO’s Mission Matters in the Fighting Game Community
Fighting game communities value not only brand legacy but refined mechanics, balance, and ongoing developer support. As seen in games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Dragon Ball FighterZ, continuous updates and competitive integrity are key to longevity.
According to a TwitchTracker analysis, fighting games consistently rank among the most streamed genres during major tournaments, reinforcing the importance of attracting competitive players and spectators alike.
Lessons from Previous Fighting Game Launches
- Avoid rushing the reveal and launch. Similar games that faced criticism often had hasty reveals without polished gameplay, harming early community reception.
- Engage communities early. Games that involve player feedback through betas and open discussions tend to build stronger fanbases.
- Offer meaningful innovation. Adding unique mechanics or fresh takes on tag-team fighting can set 2XKO apart.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for 2XKO
While 2XKO benefits from League of Legends’ robust fanbase, its true success will depend on its ability to deliver a compelling fighting game experience that resonates with both casual and competitive players. Rivera and the development team remain committed to refining the game and competing for recognition alongside established giants like Street Fighter.
With the game still in closed beta and a full release expected this year across multiple platforms, the fighting game community eagerly awaits to see if 2XKO can indeed earn its rightful place on the EVO stage by 2026.
Summary of 2XKO’s Core Challenges and Opportunities
- Challenge: Establishing a unique identity in a genre dominated by longstanding franchises.
- Opportunity: Leveraging League of Legends’ rich character roster for diverse gameplay.
- Ongoing effort: Active development and community engagement during beta phases.
