2XKO Alpha Playtest Feedback Taken into Serious Consideration

2XKO's Alpha Playtest: Addressing Player Feedback and Refining Gameplay

Just four days into its Alpha Lab Playtest, 2XKO has already garnered significant player feedback. This article details the developer's plans to address these concerns and refine the upcoming fighting game.

Addressing Combo Concerns and Tutorial Improvements

2XKO director, Shaun Rivera, announced via Twitter (X) that adjustments are being made based on the feedback received during the playtest. The game's League of Legends connection attracted a large player base, resulting in numerous online discussions and clips showcasing powerful, potentially unbalanced combos.

Rivera acknowledged the "really creative" combos discovered, but noted that excessively long combos with minimal opponent control ("super long periods of low-to-zero agency") are undesirable. A key change will involve reducing the frequency of "Touch of Death" (TOD) combos, which can instantly KO opponents from full health. While maintaining the game's fast-paced nature is a priority, the developers aim for balanced and engaging matches. Rivera clarified that TODs should be exceptional outcomes requiring high skill and resource management.

The game's Tutorial Mode also received criticism. While considered easy to learn initially, mastering its complexities proved challenging, especially without skill-based matchmaking during the playtest. Professional player Christopher "NYChrisG" described 2XKO as potentially niche due to its complex six-button system and intricate gameplay.

Rivera confirmed plans for significant Tutorial Mode improvements, acknowledging the need for better player onboarding. A dedicated Reddit post from a tutorial team member actively solicited player suggestions, including adopting a structure similar to Guilty Gear Strive or Street Fighter 6 and incorporating advanced tutorials covering concepts like frame data.

Maintaining Enthusiasm Despite Feedback

Despite the feedback, 2XKO has generated considerable enthusiasm. Professional players, like William "Leffen" Hjelte, streamed the game extensively. Twitch viewership reached a peak of 60,425 on the first day.

While still in closed alpha with no release date, 2XKO shows strong potential. The significant player engagement and substantial feedback provide a solid foundation for continued development and community building.

Interested in participating in the Alpha Lab Playtest? Further information on registration can be found in a related article.