Riot Games Announces Layoffs Amidst 2XKO's Early Struggles

Riot Games has confirmed a significant reduction in its 2XKO development team, resulting in approximately 80 layoffs. This decision, articulated by executive producer Tom Cannon, stems from the game's inability to achieve the necessary momentum to sustain a large team following its early access release on PC in October 2025 and its console launch on January 20, 2026. Cannon noted that while 2XKO has garnered a dedicated core audience, it has not reached the level of engagement required to justify the current team size. The company plans to transition affected employees to other roles within Riot where possible, and those who cannot be placed will receive a minimum of six months' severance pay.

Riot Games downsizes 2XKO team, about 80 employees affectedAfter cutting half of 2XKO's team less than 30 days from launch, I have to ask: how can any of us get behind a new Riot game ever again?Riot Spent A Decade Developing A Fighting Game Then Laid Off Around 80 Developers Less Than One Month After Release

Initially announced in 2019 under the codename Project L, 2XKO has been in development for nearly a decade. The game was designed to appeal to fighting game enthusiasts, drawing on extensive industry experience to avoid early pitfalls. Despite this long development period, the recent layoffs indicate that the game's performance has not met Riot's expectations. Senior game producer Patrick Miller, who was also laid off, emphasized the challenges of creating a successful fighting game, referencing the lengthy development cycles of established franchises like Tekken.

Riot Spent A Decade Developing A Fighting Game Then Laid Off Around 80 Developers Less Than One Month After Release

In a statement, Cannon expressed that the layoffs reflect a strategic shift rather than a judgment on individual employees. He reassured fans that the competitive circuit for 2XKO would continue and that the company would communicate future plans for the game. Riot's spokesperson reiterated that the layoffs were not a final figure, as some affected staff might find new positions within the company.

After cutting half of 2XKO's team less than 30 days from launch, I have to ask: how can any of us get behind a new Riot game ever again?

The decision to downsize the 2XKO team shortly after its launch has drawn criticism from both industry observers and fans. Many argue that such cuts send a negative signal to potential players, particularly casual gamers who may perceive the layoffs as a sign of instability. Critics have pointed out that the timing of the layoffs could deter new players from engaging with the game, potentially harming its long-term viability. Additionally, the layoffs echo previous decisions by Riot, such as the sunsetting of Legends of Runeterra, raising concerns about the company's commitment to new projects.

Riot Games downsizes 2XKO team, about 80 employees affected

While Riot has stated that the layoffs affect approximately 80 employees, some reports suggest that this number may not be final, as ongoing evaluations could lead to further changes. The exact impact on the game's development and future content remains unclear, particularly regarding Riot's commitment to releasing new champions and updates in 2026.

Riot Spent A Decade Developing A Fighting Game Then Laid Off Around 80 Developers Less Than One Month After Release

Looking ahead, Riot Games has indicated that it will provide further updates on 2XKO's development and future plans. The company faces the challenge of rebuilding confidence among its player base and ensuring that the game continues to receive support despite the recent cuts. As the gaming community awaits more information, the focus will be on how Riot navigates these changes and the potential implications for its future projects.

After cutting half of 2XKO's team less than 30 days from launch, I have to ask: how can any of us get behind a new Riot game ever again?