2XKO Sidekick Fuse: How It Works & When to Use

The 2XKO Sidekick Fuse is a gameplay mechanic that summons an AI-controlled partner to assist you during a match. You activate it by pressing the Fuse button, and it determines how your partner behaves. This article explains exactly how the Sidekick Fuse works, when to use it, and how it fits into 2XKO’s tag-team combat system.

Background: What Is a Fuse in 2XKO?

2XKO (formerly known as Project L) is Riot Games’ upcoming 2D fighting game, featuring a 2v2 tag-team format. Each player controls two characters, and you can switch between them or call them in for assist attacks. The game uses a “Fuse” system to customize how your team functions. Fuses are pre-match selections that alter your team’s mechanics, such as how you regain health, how assists work, or how your partner behaves. The Sidekick Fuse specifically changes your partner’s AI behavior when they are not being controlled directly.

How the Sidekick Fuse Works

When you select the Sidekick Fuse, your partner character becomes an AI-controlled ally that actively participates in the fight. Unlike a standard assist call (where you press a button to have your partner perform a specific move), the Sidekick automatically acts on its own. The AI will:

Attack the opponent when they are vulnerable or at a distance.
Block and defend when you are under pressure.
Attempt to combo the opponent if you land a hit.
Occasionally use special moves or supers, depending on the character and meter.

You still have manual control over your point character, and you can switch to your partner at any time by pressing the tag button. The Sidekick Fuse essentially gives you a training-wheels partner that helps with offense and defense without requiring you to manage assist calls.

When to Use the Sidekick Fuse

The Sidekick Fuse is best for players who are new to tag-team fighters or who find it difficult to manage two characters simultaneously. It allows you to focus on one character while your partner provides backup. It is also useful for players who prefer a more defensive, reactive style, as the AI partner can cover your mistakes. However, it is not recommended for high-level competitive play, as the AI’s decisions are predictable and can be exploited by experienced opponents. If you want full control over your team’s synergy, other Fuses like the Double Down or Fury Fuse may be more appropriate.

How to Choose the Right Fuse for Your Team

Choosing a Fuse depends on your playstyle and team composition. Here are some factors to consider:

Skill level: Beginners should start with Sidekick to learn the basics. Advanced players may prefer Fuses that reward manual execution, like Double Down (which increases damage when both characters attack together) or Fury (which boosts damage when your health is low).
Team synergy: If your partner has strong projectiles or long-range normals, the Sidekick AI can use them effectively. If your partner is a rushdown character, the AI may not use them optimally.
Matchup: Against opponents who rely on zoning, the Sidekick’s aggressive AI can help close the distance. Against aggressive opponents, the AI’s blocking can help you survive pressure.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that the Sidekick Fuse makes the AI partner invincible or too powerful. In reality, the AI partner takes damage and can be KO’d just like a normal character. Another issue is that the AI may interrupt your combos or steal your kills, which can be frustrating. To mitigate this, you can switch to your partner manually to take control, or you can use the Fuse button to call them back. Some players also report that the AI is overly aggressive and wastes meter on supers, so managing your meter is important when using this Fuse.

Comparison: Sidekick vs. Other Fuses

2XKO has several Fuses, each with a different focus. Here’s a quick comparison:

Sidekick: AI partner assists automatically. Best for beginners and casual play.
Double Down: Increases damage when both characters are on screen and attacking together. Rewards aggressive tag play.
Fury: Boosts damage when your health is low. Encourages risky, comeback-oriented play.
Pulse: Heals your partner gradually over time. Good for teams that want to preserve health.

Each Fuse changes the flow of the match, so experiment to find what suits your style.

Costs and Availability

The Sidekick Fuse is a free, built-in option in 2XKO. You do not need to unlock it; it is available from the start. There are no in-game purchases or microtransactions associated with Fuses. However, you must select the Fuse before each match in the character select screen. The game is currently in development, and the Fuse system may change before full release.

Safety and Fair Play

Using the Sidekick Fuse is perfectly fair and does not violate any rules. It is a designed mechanic, and all players have access to it. However, in competitive play, some tournaments may ban certain Fuses if they are deemed too strong or too random. Always check the rules of any tournament you enter. Additionally, be aware that the AI partner can sometimes behave unpredictably, so do not rely on it in high-stakes matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I control my partner while using the Sidekick Fuse?

Yes, you can switch to your partner at any time by pressing the tag button. Once you switch, you control them directly, and the AI takes over your previous character. This allows you to take over when you need to do something specific.

Does the Sidekick Fuse work with any character?

Yes, the Sidekick Fuse works with any character combination. However, the AI’s effectiveness depends on the character’s moveset. Characters with simple, straightforward moves (like heavy hitters) tend to perform better as AI partners than those with complex setups.

Can the AI partner use super moves?

Yes, the AI partner can use super moves, but it will only do so when it has enough meter and when it detects a good opportunity. This can be helpful, but it may also waste meter that you wanted to save for your point character.

Is the Sidekick Fuse banned in tournaments?

As of now, there is no official ban on the Sidekick Fuse in 2XKO tournaments, but this could change as the competitive scene develops. It is always best to check with the tournament organizer for specific rules.

How do I turn off the Sidekick Fuse mid-match?

You cannot turn off the Fuse once the match starts. You can only switch to your partner to take manual control, but the AI will still be active for your other character. To change Fuses, you must select a different one before the match.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.

More cards in this drawer

The whole Numbers and Powers drawer →