2XKO throws you into fast-paced 2v2 tag battles where every decision matters. Coming from Riot Games’ League of Legends universe, this fighting game combines accessible controls with surprisingly deep mechanics. After dozens of hours mastering the duo system, here’s everything you need to dominate your first matches.
📋 In This Guide
Quick Tips (TL;DR)
- Complete the tutorial first: 2XKO’s tutorial is comprehensive and teaches tag mechanics you won’t learn anywhere else
- Start with Ahri or Braum: These champions have straightforward kits that teach fundamentals without overwhelming complexity
- Master the handshake tag: Your ability to swap between Point and Assist characters determines your combo potential and survival
- Use Pulse Combos initially: Easy inputs let you focus on learning neutral and positioning without execution barriers
- Pushblock creates space: When overwhelmed on defense, pushblock to reset to neutral rather than trying to escape pressure
- Your Assist isn’t just backup: Call them in for mixups, combo extensions, and defensive saves
- Training mode is your lab: Spend time practicing tag combos and punishes before diving into ranked
Understanding Core Mechanics
The Duo System
Unlike traditional fighting games where you control one character, 2XKO puts you in charge of two champions. Your Point character fights on screen while your Assist waits for your call. The magic happens when you learn to swap between them seamlessly.
Handshake tags let you switch characters mid-combo, extending damage and creating opportunities your opponent can’t predict. Call your Assist for support attacks that open new combo routes or save you from dangerous situations. This system is what makes 2XKO unique, mastering it separates beginners from intermediate players.
Attack Buttons and Specials
2XKO uses a Light, Medium, Heavy attack system similar to other modern fighters. Each champion has unique normal attacks and special moves performed with directional inputs plus attack buttons.
Supers are your most powerful moves, consuming meter built through combat. Each character has at least one Super that can turn the tide of a match. Learning when to spend meter versus saving it for defensive options is crucial for long-term improvement.
The Fuse System
Fuses are 2XKO’s team customization mechanic. They modify how your duo interacts, some boost damage on tag combos, others enhance defensive options. New players should start with Sidekick Fuse, which lets you support your partner while learning the game at a gentler pace.
Choosing Your First Duo
Beginner-Friendly Point Champions
Your Point character sees the most action, so pick someone whose playstyle clicks with you:
Ahri offers excellent mobility and zoning. Her kit is intuitive for players coming from other fighters, with clear offensive and defensive tools. She teaches spacing and when to commit to aggression.
Braum is the game’s premier defensive character. His shield mechanics are unique but forgiving, and he punishes opponents who get too predictable. Great for players who prefer a patient, reactive style.
Jinx brings range and explosive damage. If you like keeping opponents at bay while dealing chip damage, she’s satisfying from your first match. Her traps create opportunities for big combos.
Beginner-Friendly Assist Champions
Your Assist should complement your Point’s weaknesses:
Ekko provides tricky mixups and combo extensions. His time manipulation abilities create situations where opponents have to guess, taking pressure off your neutral game.
Vi hits like a truck and has straightforward combo routes. She’s excellent for converting Assist calls into meaningful damage without complex execution.
Essential Tips
1. Learn to Block Before Attacking
2XKO rewards patience. Hold back to block standing attacks, down-back for lows. Many beginners focus entirely on offense, but understanding defensive options wins matches.
Pro Tip: Watch for overhead attacks, they must be blocked standing. Most characters have at least one, and getting hit opens you up for full combos.
2. Pushblock Is Your Panic Button
When you’re blocking an opponent’s pressure and feel overwhelmed, pushblock creates distance. This universal mechanic costs nothing and resets both players to neutral where you can breathe.
Don’t try to “escape” pressure by jumping or pressing buttons, you’ll get counter-hit. Pushblock, then reassess.
3. Parry Rewards Prediction
2XKO’s parry system negates incoming damage and creates counter-attack opportunities. The timing is tighter than blocking, so don’t rely on it until you understand your opponent’s patterns.
Pro Tip: Parry shines against predictable strings. Once you recognize an opponent’s habits, parries become devastating.
4. Call Your Assist Early in Combos
Beginners often forget they have two characters. Your Assist call should become second nature during combos, they extend damage significantly and make your offense scarier.
Practice simple combos that include Assist calls. Even basic routes deal more damage when your partner contributes.
5. Don’t Burn Meter Randomly
Supers look flashy, but spending meter on raw Supers is usually wasteful. Save meter for combo enders, defensive bursts, or guaranteed punishes.
Exception: Some Supers work as reversal options when waking up. Learn which of your characters have invincible Supers for these situations.
6. Tag to Save Your Character
When your Point character is low on health, tag out. Your Assist enters fresh while your original Point recovers some health in the background. Managing character health through smart tags extends your staying power.
Pro Tip: Don’t tag when you’re getting comboed, you’ll just put your Assist in the same bad situation. Wait for neutral to safely swap.
7. Use Training Mode Intentionally
Don’t just hit the dummy randomly. Set specific goals: learn one combo route, practice confirming from a particular normal, or drill your Assist call timing. Focused practice beats mindless button pressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mashing buttons on defense: You’ll get counter-hit and lose the match. Block, pushblock, or parry, don’t press attack buttons while getting hit.
- Forgetting your Assist exists: You’re playing a 2v2 game. If your Assist meter is full and you’re not calling them, you’re handicapping yourself.
- Jumping constantly: 2XKO’s grounded game is strong. Excessive jumping makes you predictable and vulnerable to anti-airs.
- Picking two complex characters: Learning two difficult champions simultaneously slows your overall growth. Pair one comfortable pick with one you’re learning.
- Ignoring the tutorial: Seriously, play it. 2XKO’s tutorial teaches mechanics you won’t figure out through experimentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 2XKO hard for fighting game beginners?
2XKO is more accessible than traditional fighters. No motion inputs for basic specials, Pulse Combos simplify execution, and the Sidekick Fuse lets you ease into duo mechanics. If you’ve struggled with other fighters, this is a good entry point.
Which Fuse should I start with?
Sidekick Fuse is designed for new players, reducing your damage but letting you support your partner while learning. Once comfortable with tag mechanics, experiment with offensive Fuses like Double Down for damage-focused play.
Can I play 2XKO solo or do I need a partner?
You can absolutely play solo, controlling both champions yourself. Many competitive players prefer this. However, you can also queue with a friend and each control one character, it’s a unique experience that works surprisingly well.
How long does it take to get good?
Basic competency comes within a few hours if you complete the tutorial and practice fundamentals. Reaching intermediate level where you consistently win against other players takes weeks of intentional practice. Like all fighting games, the skill ceiling is nearly infinite.
Is the game really free-to-play?
Yes. 2XKO uses the League of Legends model, champions can be earned through play or purchased. Cosmetics are paid. Nothing affecting gameplay is locked behind paywalls.
Summary
2XKO rewards players who invest time learning its duo mechanics. Start with beginner-friendly champions, master the tag system, and don’t neglect defense. The tutorial is genuinely excellent, play it. With consistent practice and intentional learning, you’ll transform from confused newcomer to confident competitor faster than you expect.