2XKO Alpha Playtest Feedback Taken into Serious Consideration

2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest: Addressing Player Feedback After Four Days

2XKO's four-day Alpha Lab Playtest has generated a flood of player feedback. Let's examine how 2XKO plans to incorporate this valuable input.

2XKO Gameplay Refinements Based on Playtester Input

Combo Adjustments and Tutorial Improvements

2XKO director, Shaun Rivera, used Twitter (X) to announce upcoming adjustments based on Alpha Lab Playtest feedback. The game's League of Legends connection attracted a large and vocal player base, resulting in numerous online discussions and video clips highlighting devastating, and arguably unfair, combos.

Rivera acknowledged the "really creative" combos discovered by players, but also noted the concern over excessively long, one-sided sequences. He specifically mentioned the issue of "super long periods of low-to-zero agency," a direct response to the ability to string together endless combos, effectively controlling opponents for extended periods. The tag mechanic further exacerbated this problem.

Significant changes are planned, including a reduction in the frequency of "Touch of Death" (TOD) combos – instant-kill combos capable of eliminating opponents from full health. While the developers intend to retain the game's fast-paced and explosive feel, they aim to improve balance and engagement.

Rivera admitted some TODs were "expected," but stressed that the team is using both player feedback and gameplay data to refine the system. The goal is to make TODs exceptional achievements, requiring significant skill and resources.

Beyond combo length, the Tutorial Mode has also received criticism. While the game's core mechanics are relatively intuitive, mastering its complexities is a different matter. The lack of skill-based matchmaking in the playtest highlighted this, frequently pitting inexperienced players against experienced veterans.

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

Rivera responded to this feedback, stating the current tutorial is a "rough pass" and will be significantly improved. A Reddit post by a tutorial team member actively solicited further player suggestions. Players have proposed adopting tutorial structures similar to Guilty Gear Strive and Street Fighter 6, expanding training beyond basic combos, and introducing advanced tutorials on concepts like frame data.

Enthusiastic Player Response Despite Feedback

Despite the constructive criticism, many players are enjoying 2XKO. Professional player William "Leffen" Hjelte even reported streaming the game for "19 hours straight." Twitch viewership has been impressive, peaking at 60,425 viewers on the playtest's first day.

The game remains in closed alpha, with no confirmed release date. While refinements are needed, the substantial Twitch viewership and extensive player feedback demonstrate significant potential and a growing, passionate community.

Interested in participating in the 2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest? See the link below for registration information!