2XKO Alpha Playtest: Addressing Player Feedback and Refining Gameplay
The 2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest, despite being live for only four days, has generated significant player feedback. This article details 2XKO's plans to address these concerns.
Gameplay Refinements Based on Player Feedback
2XKO director, Shaun Rivera, announced via Twitter (X) that the game will undergo adjustments based on playtest feedback. The League of Legends-themed game attracted a large player base, leading to numerous online discussions about devastating and potentially unbalanced combos.
Rivera acknowledged the "really creative" combos discovered by players, some of which allowed for extended periods of uninterrupted attacks, leaving opponents with minimal control, especially when combined with the tag mechanic. While appreciating the creativity, he stated that excessively long combos with low-to-zero opponent agency are undesirable.
A key change will be a reduction in "Touch of Death" (TOD) combos – instant-kill combos from full health. The goal is to maintain the fast-paced action while ensuring balanced and engaging matches. While some TODs were anticipated, Rivera confirmed that the team is analyzing data and player feedback to refine their frequency, aiming to make them exceptional outcomes requiring significant skill.
Tutorial Mode Improvements
The Tutorial Mode also received criticism. While the game's core mechanics are relatively easy to grasp, mastering its complexities presents a significant challenge. The lack of skill-based matchmaking in the playtest exacerbated this, often pitting novices against experienced players.
Professional fighting game player Christopher "NYChrisG" described 2XKO as potentially not accessible to all players, highlighting the complex six-button input system and intricate gameplay comparable to titles like Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite.
Rivera acknowledged this feedback, stating that the current tutorial is a "rough pass" and will see significant improvements. A Reddit post by a tutorial team member actively solicited player suggestions, including adopting structures similar to Guilty Gear Strive and Street Fighter 6, providing more in-depth training, and adding advanced tutorials on concepts like frame data.
Enthusiastic Player Response
Despite the criticism, the game has received positive reception. 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 strong potential, fueled by its impressive viewership and the wealth of constructive player feedback. A passionate community is already forming. Interested in participating? Further information on registering for the Alpha Lab Playtest can be found in the linked article (link not provided here).
