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Riot Games Cuts 2XKO Team After Post-Launch Engagement Lags

Development continues under a smaller group focused on improvements with 2026 competitive plans intact.

Overview

  • Executive producer Tom Cannon announced the restructuring weeks after the full release on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC on January 20, 2026.
  • Approximately 80 developers—about half the global team—were laid off, according to a Riot spokesperson quoted by Game Developer.
  • Riot attributes the move to insufficient overall momentum following the console debut despite a passionate core player base.
  • Impacted staff will be considered for roles elsewhere at the company or receive at least six months of notice pay and severance.
  • The studio plans to share targeted updates soon while continuing partnerships with FGC tournament organizers for the 2026 Competitive Series.