Riot Cuts 2XKO Development Team Weeks After Console Launch

Riot Games has confirmed that it has reduced the number of developers working on its free to play fighting game 2XKO. The decision came less than one month after the game officially launched on consoles.

The announcement was shared on February 9, 2026, by executive producer Tom Cannon, who is also a co founder of Evo. In a public statement, Cannon said the size of the current player base did not support keeping the team at its previous size.

Player Growth Fell Short

Cannon explained that after 2XKO expanded from PC to consoles, Riot closely reviewed how players were engaging with the game. While the title attracted a dedicated group of fans, overall growth did not reach the level needed for long term sustainability.

Because of this, Riot decided to reduce the team in order to better match the game’s current scale.

Competitive Scene Remains Safe

Riot emphasized that the layoffs will not affect the game’s competitive plans. Cannon confirmed that the 2026 Competitive Series will continue as planned.

The company says it remains committed to working with tournament organizers and supporting local fighting game communities that already help keep the scene active.

Riot Says 2XKO Is Not Ending

Cannon made it clear that these layoffs do not signal the end of 2XKO. Instead, Riot says it is reshaping the team to give the game a more stable and sustainable future.

Support for the game will continue, even with a smaller development team.

Community Reaction and Backlash

2XKO officially launched on January 20, 2026. Just two weeks later, Riot laid off many developers who had worked on the game for several years.

Some former staff members shared their experiences on social media the same day. A number of them said they were given as little as 30 minutes’ notice before being let go.

One former developer described 2XKO as their dream project and said they poured their heart into every animation and character.

Fighting Game Community Responds

The announcement quickly spread through the fighting game community, leading to mixed reactions. Many players expressed concern about the future of the 2v2 tag fighter.

The situation also drew a response from Mortal Kombat creator Ed Boon, who encouraged fans to support the developers affected by the layoffs.