2XKO: early access, tournaments, here's everything you need to know

We are almost there... Six years after the announcement of Project L (its code name) and the recent implementation of beta test phases, 2XKO is about to launch in early access on Windows PCs. This time, there's no need for a code or invitation, the title will be accessible to anyone who downloads it. This will allow players to dive into Season 0 and discover a new Champion, the tenth in the title. To push the game on the eSport scene, Riot is also going all out. We explain all of this to you.

Early Access Within Reach

Riot Games is a renowned studio that focuses on quality. No matter the project launched, whether it's a new video game or the adaptation of a license's universe like League of Legends into an animated series (Arcane), the ultimate goal is to deliver a result that meets expectations. Fighting game enthusiasts will soon discover this with 2XKO. Those familiar with the League of Legends license will surely remember the announcement of a certain Project L in 2019. It was presented as the studio's fighting game set in this popular universe. Then, nothing, radio silence... Development continued, the team worked tirelessly. It wasn't until February 2024 that the project resurfaced. This time, Riot Games specified that it is now called 2XKO, unveiled a video, and announced a release in 2025 on PC as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Then it was off, the studio began an exclusive playtest on August 8, 2024 before ramping up communication starting in early 2025. In addition to Alpha Lab sessions and a video of about an hour to present the fruit of their work, the team has set up a beta test phase since last September 9. Now, we are just a few days away from being able to play it, without any invitation. Indeed, the title will be available for free from October 7 in early access. No need for a code or registration on a site to hope to gain access, everyone will be able to enjoy it. The only condition will be to have a Windows PC. If you have the proper equipment, you can dive into Season 0 of this 2v2 fighting game.

From the first day of this early access, everyone will be able to discover the tenth playable Champion. Of course, the roster will expand over the seasons, with Riot Games already planning five seasons in 2026, with a new Champion in each of them. It's evident that each season will also bring its share of novelties and other rewards. The other big piece of information not to be missed is that all content unlocked during early access will be retained by players for the final version. You understood correctly, you will keep all your progress.

The Competition, the Community, the Connection

It's no secret to anyone, if a license lasts for years, if a game is popular and remains so, it's because there's a community behind it. Riot Games is well aware of this and has seen it clearly with its productions, starting with the essential League of Legends. This doesn't prevent them from broadening horizons, as with the Arcane series or this fighting game, to reach a wider audience. For 2XKO to have a chance to establish itself, especially alongside giants like Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, or Tekken, just to name these licenses, the company must do what's necessary. This will of course involve careful monitoring of the game but also and especially a presence on the eSports scene. That's why Riot Games is launching First Impact, an official program that will support the fighting game community.

Whether online or in person, by the end of the year, there will be 22 community tournaments sponsored by the studio. The community will remain in charge of organizing the events, but the prize pool will be partially funded by Riot. For example, if a duo wins first place in a First Impact tournament, they will earn the Duo prize and a bonus of $2,500 offered by Riot. To honor the Champions, the winners will also receive the title of Regional Legend players. A distinction that everyone can proudly display. The wait won't be long to discover this program since the first tournament related to it will be none other than the 2 NICE KO, which will take place in Nice between October 10 and 12. It will be part of EVO France and organized by MIXUP Crew.