2XKO Alpha Playtest: Addressing Player Feedback and Refining Gameplay
The 2XKO Alpha Lab Playtest, only four days old, has already generated significant player feedback. This article details how 2XKO plans to address these concerns.
Gameplay Refinements Based on Player Feedback
2XKO director Shaun Rivera, via Twitter (X), announced upcoming adjustments based on playtest feedback. The game's League of Legends connection attracted a large player base, leading to extensive online feedback and video clips showcasing powerful, potentially unbalanced combos.
Rivera acknowledged these "really creative" combos but highlighted the issue of extended periods where players have minimal control ("super long periods of low-to-zero agency are undesirable"). A key change will be reducing the frequency of "Touch of Death" (TOD) combos – instant kills from full health. While maintaining the fast-paced action, the goal is to ensure balanced and engaging matches. While some TODs were anticipated, Rivera stated that the team is analyzing data and feedback to ensure TODs remain exceptional outcomes requiring high skill and resources.
The Tutorial Mode also received criticism. While the game's core mechanics are accessible, mastering its complexities is challenging. The lack of skill-based matchmaking in the playtest exacerbated this, pitting novices against experienced players. Professional player Christopher "NYChrisG" described 2XKO as potentially not for everyone, citing its complex six-button system and intricate gameplay comparable to titles like Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite.
Rivera confirmed that improvements to the Tutorial are planned, describing the current version as a "rough pass." A Reddit post by a tutorial team member actively solicited player suggestions, including adopting a structure similar to Guilty Gear Strive or Street Fighter 6, providing more in-depth training, and incorporating advanced tutorials covering concepts like frame data.
Enthusiasm Persists Despite Feedback
Despite the criticism, 2XKO has garnered significant positive response. Professional player William "Leffen" Hjelte streamed 19 hours of gameplay, and the game achieved impressive Twitch viewership, peaking at 60,425 viewers on its first day.
While the closed alpha lacks a release date and requires further refinement, the high viewership and substantial player feedback suggest strong potential and a burgeoning community. Interested in participating? Find registration details in the linked article.
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