Riot Games is ceasing development of its fighting game 2XKO due to insufficient player engagement, while MBC enters the gaming industry and Panic refunds tariff fees.
In a significant development within the gaming industry, Riot Games has announced its decision to wind down active development for its fighting game 2XKO by December 2026. The company cited a lack of sustainable player engagement as the primary reason for discontinuing support. According to Game Developer, Riot explained that the player base did not grow sufficiently to support ongoing development. This move marks a rare cessation for Riot, known for its enduring success with titles like League of Legends and Valorant. The announcement raises questions about the viability of niche fighting games in a market dominated by long-standing franchises.
Elsewhere, Panic, the maker of the Playdate handheld console, is taking an unusual but consumer-friendly step by refunding tariff fees to its customers. Panic stated, “It’s just not our money to keep,” highlighting its commitment to customer satisfaction. In a market where hardware costs are closely scrutinized, this decision could bolster Panic’s reputation, potentially influencing consumer perceptions and loyalty.
In another strategic expansion, the Saudi-owned media conglomerate MBC has formally entered the gaming industry by establishing MBC Game Studio. Announced at Gamescom 2026, the move is indicative of a broader trend of media companies diversifying into interactive entertainment. According to Game Developer, MBC has already recruited veterans from renowned studios such as BioWare, Hi-Rez, Ubisoft Montreal, and Bungie. This ambitious foray signifies growing interest and investment from non-traditional gaming entities, potentially reshaping the studio landscape with new competition and collaboration opportunities.
