Braum & Illaoi’s EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

Braum & Illaoi's EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must admit that the addition of Braum and Illaoi to the roster of 2XKO at EVO 2024 was nothing short of a dream come true. Having dabbled in League of Legends for years, it was a delight to see these familiar faces transition into the realm of fighting games.


In the process of further developing 2XKO by Riot Games, the character lineup has been steadily expanding. Prior to EVO 2024, Braum was unveiled as a playable character, introducing his massive shield, immense strength, and adorable Poros troops onto the battlefield. Although we’ve had multiple opportunities to try out the game before, it wasn’t until Braum or the other powerful fighter Illaoi entered the scene that we got our hands on it again. At EVO 2024, this gap was finally filled, allowing us to witness how these two heavyweight combatants performed in battle. Essentially, they provided unique and enjoyable gameplay experiences that complemented the existing roster very well.

Braum, The Heart of the Freljord

In essence, Braum from League of Legends is similar to those large St. Bernard rescue dogs often portrayed in old cartoons. He’s a hero of the icy realm Freljord in the game, constantly wandering the tundra to aid those in distress. In League of Legends (LoL), he’s primarily a Support character, known for his icy attacks, robust defensive tactics, and an ultimate move that slows anything it touches. However, in 2XKO, Braum becomes more aggressive and offensive. His shield isn’t merely decorative; he wields it as a weapon, using it to attack, defend, freeze enemies, or even ride them in the most humiliating fashion possible.

In the game 2XKO, Braum’s fighting style is exhilarating. He packs a punch that’s noticeable, and his attacks can lead to significant damage due to his freezing abilities. If he manages to land his shield projectile or other attacks, his opponent will be immobilized, similar to Sub-Zero freezing an enemy in Mortal Kombat. Once frozen, Braum can unleash a barrage of attacks just like Sub-Zero. His offensive moves also include charging forward with a shield strike, boosting the shield’s power with Freljord ice for increased damage, and even diving onto opponents and riding them to the edge of the stage.

Braum & Illaoi's EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

Braum exhibits strong defense, never compromising his strategic techniques in the process. He’s capable of setting up a powerful shield to deflect numerous attacks and missiles, creating a secure zone for his teammate to launch their offensive or nullify stronger enemy attacks. In essence, he’s both offensively and defensively effective as a character who can safeguard allies while dishing out punishment on enemies when needed. Beware if you find yourself frozen under the skilled hands of Braum!

Illaoi, The Kraken Priestess

Braum & Illaoi's EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

Playing against Illaoi in the Top Lane of League of Legends often means a challenging match ahead. Known as the Kraken Priestess, she’s a formidable fighter, standing tall like a mountainess woman. She has the aid of spirits to help her deal heavy blows to her enemies. More precisely, Illaoi carries an urn that generates spirit tentacles. When she strikes an opponent with one of her abilities in League of Legends, nearby tentacles within range will join the attack too. In a dramatic finale, her ultimate ability summons three more tentacles onto the battlefield, all of which converge on enemies to inflict massive damage.

2XKO finds Illaoi continuing her role as a formidable brawler, yet maintaining the strategic playstyle that sets her apart in League of Legends. Similar to Braum, Illaoi is tough and delivers heavy blows to opponents, but what makes her truly menacing is her ability to manipulate her spirit tentacles. Some of Illaoi’s attacks generate persistent spirit tentacles on the battlefield for a certain duration. If Illaoi lands additional attacks, any nearby tentacles will attack enemies as well. This tactic not only amplifies Illaoi’s damage output but also creates intense situations where opponents must contend with both her and her tentacle attacks, constantly monitoring their positions and the overall onslaught from various directions.

Braum & Illaoi's EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

In the upcoming 2XKO tournament, Illaoi seems to require a more strategic approach. It’s crucial to find ways to strategically place her tentacles without putting yourself in danger. Once they’re on the field, it’s equally important to use them wisely. Initially, Illaoi might need some adjustments to reach her optimal performance, but once you get the hang of it, she could prove just as formidable in 2XKO as she is in League of Legends.

Battle of the big bodies

Braum & Illaoi's EVO 2024 debut in 2XKO was a feast of hard-hitting big bodies

As a longtime gaming enthusiast who has attended numerous events like EVO over the years, I must say that getting a sneak peek at the PC demo version of 2XKO in 2024 was quite an exciting experience for me. This game, which is set to debut on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC in 2025, certainly seems poised to be a standout title. Having seen it firsthand at EVO, I can’t wait to immerse myself in the world of 2XKO and explore its offerings when it finally launches.

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2024-07-31 17:57