Riot Games has reduced the size of the studio working on fighting game 2XKO, laying off roughly 80 people — about half of the development team — shortly after the game's January 20 release on PC and consoles. The company says player activity did not reach levels necessary to support the original team headcount, prompting a reorganization to focus on core fixes and longer-term sustainability. Riot also indicated its 2026 Competitive Series plans remain intact while it refocuses development.

  • Scale of cuts: A Riot spokesperson told outlets the layoffs affect about 80 employees, approximately half of the 2XKO development team.
  • Reason given: Leadership framed the move as a reaction to lower-than-expected ongoing engagement, necessitating a smaller team to continue work sustainably.
  • Ongoing support: Riot pledged to continue backing competitive initiatives and to work with tournament organizers and local fighting-game communities.
  • Next steps and aid: The company says a tightened team will concentrate on requested improvements, will share specific plans soon, and will assist impacted staff with internal opportunities and compensation — including at least six months’ notice pay or severance where applicable.

Source: Game Informer

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