2xko release date: Riot Games opened the closed beta of its new fighting game, 2XKO, on September 9, 2025. The title, set in the League of Legends and Runeterra universe, lets players battle using iconic champions such as Jinx, Blitzcrank, and Darius. Riot has not revealed when the beta will end, but the full release is expected toward the end of this year.
2xko Beta: How to join
Players who joined earlier testing phases are automatically included in this beta. New players can request access through Riot’s official website or receive an invite from someone already playing. Each participant can invite up to three friends. The beta is available on PC, with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series access planned later.
2xko Characters and stages
Nine champions are available in this beta:
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Jinx
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Braum
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Ahri
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Darius
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Ekko
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Yasuo
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Illaoi
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Vi
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Blitzcrank
The game also includes five stages based on League of Legends lore. Four stages are unlocked from the start—Bridge of Progress, Scuttler’s Strand, Spirit Hills, and The Brazen Hydra—while Annihilator’s Reach can be purchased in-game.
Esports presence
2XKO will feature at Ultimate Fighting Arena 2025 in Paris, one of the top fighting game tournaments worldwide. The fighting game community (FGC) has already started hosting grassroots competitions, building momentum for its competitive future.
What’s new in 2xko closed beta
Unlike Alpha Lab 2, the closed beta does not include a Battle Pass. Instead, cosmetics can be unlocked with Credits earned through missions. Players can access:
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Chromas to change champion color palettes
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Player cards as customization options
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Taunts to use during matches
No skins or real-money purchases are included in this phase.
2xko Gameplay changes
Riot has rebalanced 2XKO after feedback from previous tests. Key adjustments include:
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Faster match pacing with higher damage output
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Weaker defensive tools such as pushblock and retreating guard
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Improved comeback potential with Fury and Break meter changes
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Better match engagement to reduce downtime during fights
Meters have been reworked too. Super meter resets between rounds, Break meter starts at 75%, and counter hits now provide more rewards. Throws deal more damage, movement has been adjusted, and gray health recovery is slower.
Champion tweaks
Some characters received notable updates:
- Ahri gets more reliable air options and a new cinematic for Charm.
- Braum has a slower command grab but stronger overhead tools.
- Darius now has a projectile for added pressure.
- Ekko has stronger mixups against blocking opponents.
- Illaoi gains a chargeable tentacle strike for full-screen pressure.
- Jinx’s traps and gadgets are now more viable alongside her rockets.
- Yasuo has better mixup potential and improved projectile behavior.
- Vi’s damage has been tuned down but remains strong in neutral play.
Blitzcrank is brand new, with no adjustments yet.
Quality-of-life upgrades
The closed beta also adds in-game reporting and blocking tools, a revamped controls menu, and the option to jump between lobbies and training mode more easily. Matchmaking now connects players across lobbies when wait times run long.
FAQs
Q1: What is 2XKO?
2XKO is Riot Games’ new fighting game set in the League of Legends universe, featuring iconic champions and competitive gameplay.
Q2: When did the 2XKO closed beta start?
The closed beta started on September 9, 2025.
Q3: How can I join the beta?
Players from earlier tests are automatically included. New players can apply on Riot’s official site or get an invite from a friend.
Q4: Which platforms is the beta available on?
The closed beta is currently available on PC. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series versions will arrive later.
Q5: Which champions are playable in the closed beta?
Nine champions are available: Jinx, Braum, Ahri, Darius, Ekko, Yasuo, Illaoi, Vi, and Blitzcrank.
Q6: Does the beta have a Battle Pass?
No, there is no Battle Pass. Players can unlock cosmetics using Credits earned in-game.
Q7: What are some of the major gameplay changes?
Riot has improved match pacing, reduced defensive options, increased comeback potential, and slowed gray health recovery.
Q8: Will 2XKO be part of esports tournaments?
Yes. It is already confirmed for the Ultimate Fighting Arena 2025 in Paris, with grassroots events also taking place.
