2XKO, Riot Games’ free-to-play 2v2 tag-team fighter, has officially launched on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S . With 12 champions from the League of Legends universe, unique Assist mechanics, and team-modifying Fuses, there’s a lot to absorb—especially for players new to fighting games .
The good news? You don’t need to master frame data or complex combos to start having fun. With the right beginner-friendly champions, simple team synergies, and the Pulse Combo system, you can jump into matches and hold your own immediately .
Here’s everything you need to know as a new 2XKO player, including the best champions for beginners, how to build a strong team, and essential tips to improve fast.
Best Beginner-Friendly Champions
Not all champions in 2XKO are created equal when it comes to learning curve. Some have straightforward game plans and forgiving mechanics, making them perfect for new players .
Recommended Champions for Beginners
| Champion | Playstyle | Why It’s Beginner-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Darius | Brawler | Simple game plan, huge damage, forgiving attacks. His moves are straightforward but deadly [citation:6]. |
| Vi | Aggressive Rushdown | Easy to understand, armored moves, great at closing distance and pressuring opponents [citation:10]. |
| Ahri | Mobile Spellcaster | Excellent mobility, works well with any teammate, can convert small hits into combos [citation:3]. |
| Braum | Defensive Tank | Great defensive options, shield protects teammates, teaches teamplay fundamentals [citation:4]. |
Darius is often recommended for first-time players because his attacks have great range and his damage output is massive when he connects . Vi offers a straightforward aggressive style with her armored moves and Blast Shield passive .
Team Synergies & Beginner Duos
2XKO is a tag-team fighter, so how your two champions work together matters as much as individual strength . Here are three beginner-friendly duos that complement each other well .
Best Team Combinations for New Players
Caitlyn and Vi
These Piltover partners cover all ranges. Caitlyn uses her hextech rifle for long-range poke and traps, while Vi excels at close-range brawling. Together, they can handle opponents at any distance .
Darius and Ekko
Darius deals massive damage with his axe but is slow. Ekko provides mobility and confusion with his teleports and afterimages. Use Ekko to jump in or out, then land big hits with Darius .
Ahri and Braum
Ahri is a quick aerial spellcaster, while Braum provides defensive support with his shield. Use Ahri’s foxfire to pressure opponents from above, and if you’re under attack, bring in Braum’s shield to retreat safely .
When building your team, think about balance. If one champion is slow, pair them with someone mobile. If one is defensive, pair them with an aggressive partner .
Essential Tips for New Players
Use Pulse Combo to Learn Automatically
Pulse Combo is 2XKO’s autocombo feature, and it’s perfect for beginners . In champion select, press RT to enable it. Once activated, you can press the same attack button repeatedly to automatically perform a combo (if you land the first hit) .
There are unique autocombos for the X, Y, and B buttons. Try each one to learn how your champion combines moves. You never need to “graduate” from using Pulse if you don’t want to—it’s a legitimate way to play .
Master Assist Mechanics
Your backup champion can help even when off-screen . Press A or Back + A to call them in for unique Assist moves :
- Braum’s Stand Behind Me (Back + A): He leaps in to shield you from attacks—perfect for creating space .
- Blitzcrank’s Rocket Grab (A): He pulls an enemy toward your team, setting up big combos .
- Vi’s Crater Maker (Back + A): She punches the ground, hitting opponents out of the air .
When playing with a friend, they can tag in by pressing A right after their Assist move .
Experiment with Fuses
Fuses are team modifiers that change how your duo works together. You pick your Fuse after selecting champions . Beginner-friendly options include:
- Juggernaut: Play as one empowered champion with extra health and damage reduction (no Assists) .
- Sidekick: Your Point champion gets buffs while your Assist gains supporting abilities .
- Double Down: Combine both champions’ Super attacks for massive damage .
Two advanced Fuses (2X Assist and Freestyle) unlock after completing tutorials .
Complete Tutorials & Training
The Learning Hub offers structured ways to improve without pressure :
- Bot Beatdown: Win against bots to unlock cosmetic chromas .
- Tutorial: Learn movement, attacking, and blocking basics. Completing this unlocks avatar cosmetics .
- Combo Trials: Practice character-specific combos at multiple difficulty levels .
- Advanced Lessons: Level up with techniques for offense, defense, and teamwork .
- Training Mode: Play against bots at your own pace to experiment .
