Riot Games’ Executive Producer for 2XKO, Tom Cannon, announced the layoffs on February 9, 2026 stating that the decision was made due to the game’s current momentum being unable to support the team’s size.
“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,” Cannon writes. “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.”
Impacted employees will be provided a 6 months of notice pay and severance.
Moving forward, Cannon continues that the team will be shifting in focus and operation for more sustainability. Esports events will still continue within the year, as well as their support for community-organized tournaments.
“Our plans for the 2026 Competitive Series are unchanged. We remain committed to partnering with tournament organizers and local communities. Our focus will continue to be on supporting the events and organizers that already power the FGC”
Read the full announcement here: https://www.riotgames.com/en/news/an-update-on-2xko