When Riot Games first began exploring new ventures beyond their flagship title, League of Legends, in the late 2010s, few would have predicted a fighting game. Yet, that’s precisely what materialized, initially known as Project L and now officially named 2XKO. After more than six years since its initial confirmation, this highly anticipated tag-team brawler has navigated a challenging development journey. But the wait is finally over! PC players can look forward to diving into 2XKO’s Season 0 when early access kicks off in just two weeks.
Following years of exciting character reveals, confidential playtests, public betas, and appearances at events like EVO, the official launch date for 2XKO has finally been confirmed. Riot has a strong track record with successful League of Legends spinoffs, including Teamfight Tactics, Legends of Runeterra, and even their unique card game, Riftbound. Even Valorant, a departure from the LoL universe, has achieved widespread success. Naturally, this places considerable expectations on 2XKO as it enters a fiercely competitive genre already populated by established franchises and beloved fighting games. However, its distinctive 2v2 tag-team combat, free-to-play model for PC, and the vast, dedicated fanbase of the League of Legends universe are poised to give it a significant edge.
As early access launches next month, 2XKO will immediately begin its inaugural Season 0. This initial season promises to introduce a mysterious new fighter, expanding the already exciting roster of 2XKO characters to a total of ten. Players can expect a full suite of live-service rewards, including new fighters, cosmetics, and mastery incentives. Riot has assured players that all progress and unlocks during Season 0 will be permanent, confirming it’s a legitimate start to the game’s lifecycle, not merely a trial.
Looking ahead to 2026, 2XKO is set to truly hit its stride with a robust seasonal schedule. Riot plans to roll out five distinct seasons throughout the year, which, by our calculations, translates to a new season roughly every two and a half months. Each new season will bring with it an additional playable fighter, a truly impressive content cadence for fans.
As expected from a competitive title by Riot, 2XKO will prominently feature an esports scene. To kick things off with a bang, Riot has unveiled ‘First Impact,’ an initiative supporting 22 community-driven tournaments across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. These events will offer both prize money and exclusive in-game incentives, including a coveted ‘Local Legend’ title for champions. Notably, the very first tournament, Evo France: 2 NICE KO, is scheduled to commence just three days after the game’s official launch.
The prolonged anticipation is finally drawing to a close! Mark your calendars: 2XKO will enter early access for PC players on Tuesday, October 7. And remember, it’s completely free to play!
To prepare for the competitive action, consider exploring our recommended multiplayer games. If your PC needs a performance boost before a wave of new releases arrives, be sure to consult our guide on the best graphics cards.
Planning to jump into 2XKO on launch day? We’d love to hear from you in the PCGamesN Discord server – perhaps we can start a fun discussion or even a guessing game about the identity of that mysterious tenth fighter!