Riot’s Upcoming Fighting Game Faces Turmoil with 80 Developer Layoffs Just Weeks After Console Launch

2XKO has barely completed its first month on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, and already Riot Games is making significant cuts. The developer behind League of Legends has announced the layoff of 80 employees as the tag-team fighting game struggles to find its footing.

In a blog post, executive producer Tom Cannon explained, “I want you to know that decision wasn’t made lightly. As we expanded from PC to console, we saw consistent trends in how players were engaging with 2XKO. The game has resonated with a passionate core audience, but overall momentum hasn’t reached the level needed to support a team of this size long term.”

Set in the vibrant universe of League of Legends, 2XKO boasts stunning cel-shaded graphics and a plethora of flashy combos. However, despite its Early Access launch on PC last October, it failed to make a significant impact in the fighting game scene. The game officially launched and made its way to consoles last month, where it became the third most-downloaded free-to-play title on PS4 and PS5, surpassing Marvel Rivals and Highguard.

While those numbers might seem decent given the game’s trajectory, it appears Riot had higher expectations. It raises the question of whether the plan was always to downsize the development team post-launch, as the company seeks to replicate its MOBA success in other genres.

Cannon reassured fans that there are no intentions to abandon 2XKO, and the remaining team will continue to provide updates and pursue its competitive plans for the first year. “Ultimately, this decision reflects a shift in how we operate,” he stated. “This isn’t a judgment on individual Rioters or a signal that the journey is over. We’re reshaping the team to give 2XKO a more sustainable path forward.”

He acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the layoffs, saying, “I know this update will raise questions and concerns. That’s understandable.” However, he did not provide further details to ease fans’ worries.