2XKO Alpha Playtest Feedback Seriously Considered

2XKO's Alpha Lab Playtest has been live for just 4 days, yet it has already garnered a wealth of feedback from players. Here's how 2XKO plans to refine the game based on this input.

2XKO to Refine Gameplay Based on Playtest Feedback

Players Call for Tamed Combos and Enhanced Tutorial Mode

2XKO's director, Shaun Rivera, took to Twitter (X) to announce adjustments to the upcoming fighting game based on feedback from the ongoing Alpha Lab Playtest. With the game rooted in the League of Legends IP, it attracted a significant player base. These players have shared feedback and clips online showcasing some overpowering combos, which many consider too unbalanced.

"One of the reasons we were excited for a ton of folks to get early hands-on in Alpha Lab, along with ensuring a training mode was available, was to see what ways players cracked things wide open," Rivera stated in his tweet. Players indeed found ways to exploit the system, executing endless combos that kept opponents in a juggle state for too long, especially when combined with the tag mechanic.

While Rivera praised these combos as "really creative," he also pointed out that "super long periods of low-to-zero agency are undesirable."

Players can expect a reduction in the frequency of Touch of Death (TOD) or instant kill combos that could knock out an opponent from full health. The developers aim to preserve the game's fast-paced and explosive nature while ensuring matches remain balanced and engaging.

Rivera acknowledged that some existing combos leading to TODs were "expected," but stressed that the team is closely monitoring player feedback and analyzing gameplay data to address these issues. He clarified that TODs should be exceptional outcomes that require significant skill and resources to execute.

In addition to concerns about excessive combos, 2XKO's Tutorial Mode has also faced criticism. While the game is relatively easy to pick up, mastering its complexities presents a significant challenge. The lack of skill-based matchmaking in the playtest has compounded this issue, often matching new players against seasoned veterans.

Professional fighting game player Christopher "NYChrisG" described 2XKO as "not meant for everyone," citing its complex six-button input system and gameplay that is as intricate as, if not more than, titles like Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid, and BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle.

Responding to the criticism, Rivera wrote, "I have heard feedback that folks want to see a lot more from our Tutorial in order to more easily onboard players to the game. This version is a rough pass, so please expect it to improve significantly in the future."

The developers are actively working to enhance 2XKO, as seen in a recent Reddit post where a tutorial team member sought player feedback on improving the game's Tutorial Mode. Players have suggested adopting a tutorial structure similar to Guilty Gear Strive and Street Fighter 6, providing more in-depth training beyond basic combos, and introducing an advanced tutorial covering complex concepts like frame data.

2XKO Players Remain Enthusiastic Amidst Feedback

Despite these criticisms, many players are enjoying the game. Pro fighting game player William "Leffen" Hjelte even streamed 19 hours straight of 2XKO. On Twitch, the game has attracted thousands of viewers, peaking at a staggering 60,425 during the first day of the playtest.

Currently in closed alpha with no confirmed release date, 2XKO has rough edges to smooth out. However, with its impressive Twitch viewership and the abundance of player feedback, there's a strong indication of great potential and a passionate community forming around it.

Want to get a taste of 2XKO's Alpha Lab Playtest? Check out the article below to learn how to register!