By DonkAI
Vi cinematic criticism in 2XKO has become a hot-button issue just months before the pioneering fighting game from Riot Games heads into its closed beta. As the Fighting Game Community (FGC) gears up for new contenders and tournaments like Evo 2025, many are voicing strong opinions about the quality of Vi’s animations—especially her ultimate move. This feedback is shaping how players view not only the new character but also the direction of 2XKO’s overall development.
Riot Games faces player backlash over Vi’s animation quality
With 2XKO’s next closed beta scheduled for September 2025, Riot Games is facing tough feedback regarding Vi’s cinematic presentation. Dedicated fans and competitive players took to social media and forums after a recent update introduced Vi, describing her ultimate animation as “hitting air” and her cinematics as lazy, poorly directed, and underwhelming. While Vi’s aggressive gameplay and ability set have intrigued players, the disappointment centers squarely on her visual storytelling, which many say fails to create the spectacle expected from such a hyped release.
Fighting Game Community’s concerns go beyond a single character
It’s not just about one move or one character. The Fighting Game Community’s concerns point toward deeper game development issues. After six years with only eight confirmed characters, 2XKO has long been scrutinized for its slow content rollout. Now, with Vi joining the roster—possibly chosen as much for her Arcane fame as her fit in the FGC meta—critics argue that attention to marquee details like game animation was sacrificed for the sake of meeting deadlines or increasing the character roster.
Vi’s ultimate move and the immersion problem
A major pain point is the visual execution of Vi’s ultimate move. In fighting games, an ultimate attack should provide players with a strong sense of impact, immersion, and satisfying feedback. According to fans’ gameplay feedback, Vi’s cinematic falls flat and disconnects from the action—appearing as if she punches into thin air rather than landing blows. This lack of visual coherence can break immersion and dampen the excitement during pivotal moments in matches, which matters even more on big stages like Evo 2025.
Balancing character roster growth and quality animation
Expanding a fighting game’s character roster is essential for freshness and competitive depth. But as 2XKO approaches its 2025 launch, some fans see Vi’s lackluster animation as evidence that resources are being stretched thin to balance roster growth with animation polish. While Riot Games wants to deliver recognizable faces and diverse playstyles, the Vi cinematic criticism in 2XKO shows players aren’t willing to accept shortcuts when it comes to quality and visual excitement.
Arcane popularity and development pressures
Vi’s inclusion in 2XKO is clearly influenced by her popularity from Arcane, Riot’s animated hit. However, the jump from streaming icon to fighting game brawler brings its own challenges. Fans speculate that development pressures, such as time constraints and technical limitations, may have led to rushed or underdeveloped cinematics. The limited gameplay updates and small roster have already stirred controversy, and Vi’s animation misstep risks deepening players’ skepticism about 2XKO’s readiness for the crowded fighting game scene.
Community feedback and the road to Evo 2025
Feedback from the FGC is not falling on deaf ears. With high-profile tournaments like Evo 2025 ahead, the pressure is on for Riot Games to address these animation criticisms and regain player confidence. Many hope that with enough gameplay feedback, Vi’s cinematics will be improved before the game’s full release—helping 2XKO live up to its promise and solidify its place on the competitive circuit.
Frequently asked questions about Vi cinematic criticism in 2XKO (FAQ)
Why is the Fighting Game Community upset with Vi’s cinematics in 2XKO?
Players feel that Vi’s ultimate move looks unfinished, with animations that lack impact and immersion. The criticism primarily focuses on weak visual execution and what’s seen as “lazy” direction.
Is Vi’s gameplay in 2XKO also being criticized?
No—most feedback on Vi’s playstyle is positive. The criticism is specific to her cinematic animations, not her mechanics or design.
Why did Riot Games add Vi to 2XKO now?
Some speculate it’s due to her popularity from Arcane and an attempt to quickly expand the character roster before the game’s release.
Will Riot Games fix Vi’s cinematic animations before launch?
Riot has not officially stated plans to update Vi’s cinematics, but with closed beta and player feedback underway, improvements are likely before the 2025 launch.
How does this criticism affect 2XKO’s esports future, especially at Evo 2025?
If not addressed, animation flaws could impact game perception and audience excitement at major events. However, responsive fixes might boost community trust and support competitive growth.
Sources to this article
- FGC subreddit discussion threads (2024-2025)
- Official 2XKO updates and developer blogs from Riot Games (2024-2025)
- Evo 2025 pre-event commentary and player interviews
- [1][2][3][4] See context provided above for real-time feedback and reporting (Harvard System)
