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Riot Confirms 2XKO Console Release for January 2026
A Major Step in Riot’s Expanding League of Legends Universe
Riot Games’ ambition to grow the League of Legends universe far beyond its MOBA origins continues to take shape. Over the past decade, the studio has diversified its portfolio with remarkable success, from the award-winning animated series Arcane, to virtual pop sensations like K/DA, to genre-crossing projects that reimagine the world of Runeterra. One of the most anticipated pieces of this expansion is 2XKO, Riot’s stylish tag-team fighting game built around its beloved champion roster.
The game has been available through Early Access on PC, where players have had a chance to test its fast-paced, duo-driven combat system. Console fans, however, have been waiting for news of their own—and the wait is finally over. In its latest development update, Riot confirmed that 2XKO will release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles in January 2026, with wishlisting now open on both platforms.
This announcement marks a significant milestone not only for the game but also for Riot’s broader ecosystem strategy. By ensuring a simultaneous cross-platform presence early in the game’s lifespan, Riot positions its new fighter as a more accessible entry point for fighting game players and League of Legends fans alike.
Season 1 Brings a Larger Roster, New Cosmetics, and Console-Friendly Progression
Riot confirmed that the console release will coincide with the start of Season 1, which introduces a deeper roster of champions, a fresh slate of skins, and expanded mastery options. While PC players will already have months of experience with the game, Riot noted that console users will receive dedicated progression systems designed to help them catch up quickly without feeling left behind.
Season 1 appears to be structured to emphasise long-term engagement rather than a simple content drop. Along with mechanical refinements, the update will broaden player customisation, champion-specific goals, and unlock paths tailored to both newcomers and competitive-minded players. For console audiences encountering 2XKO for the first time, this onboarding-focused approach should make the transition smoother and more rewarding.
The accompanying trailer also highlights several quality-of-life adjustments, visual refinements, and refinements to tag mechanics, suggesting that Riot intends to continue polishing the game aggressively ahead of its 2026 console debut.
Esports Support Begins in 2026 With a Full Competitive Circuit
Riot also outlined early plans for the future to make it a competitive title. Launch year will serve as the starting point for the 2XKO Competitive Series, which will feature around 15 Challenger Events and 5 Major tournaments throughout 2026. The first Major begins on 29 January 2026, marking the earliest date the game will appear on an organised esports stage.
Prize pool details have yet to be revealed, but the structure mirrors Riot’s approach to games like Valorant, where a blend of regional events and flagship Majors helped nurture early competitive ecosystems. By committing to a full tournament calendar ahead of launch, Riot signals its intent to position 2XKO as a serious contender within the fighting game community, rather than a side project within its expanding portfolio.
With a locked-in console release window, a packed Season 1 roadmap, and Riot’s esports machine already warming up, 2026 is poised to be a defining year for 2XKO and a promising bridge between League of Legends fans and the fighting game world.
