2XKO Alpha Playtest: Addressing Player Feedback and Refining Gameplay
The 2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest, despite running only four days, has generated significant player feedback. This article details how 2XKO plans to address these concerns.
Gameplay Refinements Based on Player Input
2XKO director, Shaun Rivera, via Twitter (X), announced adjustments based on playtest feedback. The League of Legends-themed game attracted a large player base, leading to online discussions and shared clips showcasing incredibly damaging, and arguably unfair, combos.
Rivera acknowledged the "really creative" combos but noted that excessively long, one-sided sequences ("super long periods of low-to-zero agency") are undesirable. A key change will be reducing the frequency of "Touch of Death" (TOD) combos, which can instantly KO opponents from full health. While maintaining the fast-paced action is a priority, balance and engaging gameplay are equally important. While some TODs were anticipated, Rivera confirmed that the team is actively analyzing data and player feedback to ensure TODs remain exceptional outcomes demanding high skill and resource management.
Tutorial Mode Improvements
The Tutorial Mode has also received criticism. While the game's core mechanics are accessible, mastering its complexities presents a significant hurdle, especially without skill-based matchmaking in the playtest. Professional player Christopher "NYChrisG" described 2XKO as potentially niche due to its intricate six-button system and gameplay complexity comparable to titles like Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid, and BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle.
Rivera confirmed that improvements to the Tutorial are planned, acknowledging the current version as a "rough pass." A dedicated Reddit thread seeks player input for enhancements, with suggestions including adopting structures similar to Guilty Gear Strive and Street Fighter 6, expanding training beyond basic combos, and adding an advanced tutorial covering concepts like frame data.
Positive Player Response
Despite the feedback, player enthusiasm remains high. Professional player William "Leffen" Hjelte streamed 19 hours of 2XKO, and the game attracted thousands of Twitch viewers, peaking at 60,425 on its first day.
While still in closed alpha with no release date, 2XKO shows significant promise, fueled by strong Twitch viewership and valuable player feedback, indicating a passionate community is already developing. Interested in participating? See the linked article for registration details.
