How to Master Launch OTG Reaction 2XKO (March 2026)

If you’ve been working through 2XKO’s tutorial system and found yourself stuck on the Launch OTG Reaction section, you’re not alone. This advanced technique is one of the most crucial mechanics to master for competitive play, yet it’s often poorly explained in basic tutorials. As someone who has spent countless hours in the training mode perfecting this technique, I’m here to break down everything you need to know about Launch OTG Reactions in 2XKO.
What is Launch OTG Reaction in 2XKO?
Launch OTG Reaction stands for “Launch On The Ground Reaction” – a fundamental fighting game mechanic that allows you to attack opponents while they’re in a downed state and launch them back into the air for extended combos. This technique is essential for maximizing damage output and maintaining pressure on your opponents in 2XKO.
The concept is simple: when you knock an opponent down, instead of letting them recover, you use specific moves that can hit them while they’re on the ground, launching them back up for additional combo opportunities. This is particularly important in 2XKO’s tag-team system, where extended combos can lead to devastating team combinations.
Why Launch OTG Matters in 2XKO?
In 2XKO, Launch OTG Reactions serve several critical purposes:
- Extended Combo Potential: OTG moves allow you to continue combos that would normally end when your opponent hits the ground
- Team Synergy: Perfect for setting up assist calls and tag combinations
- Pressure Maintenance: Keeps your opponent from safely recovering and resetting neutral
- Resource Building: Longer combos mean more super meter and break meter generation
- Match Control: Dominant players use OTG techniques to control the pace of entire matches
Complete Launch OTG Reaction Guide
Understanding the Basic Mechanics
Before diving into specific techniques, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental mechanics behind Launch OTG Reactions in 2XKO:
Timing Window: There’s a specific window when you can perform OTG attacks – it’s after your opponent hits the ground but before they begin their invincible wake-up animation. Missing this window means your OTG attack will whiff, leaving you vulnerable to punishment.
Hit Reactions: When you successfully land an OTG attack, your opponent will experience a “Launch OTG Reaction” – they’ll be lifted from the ground back into a juggle state, allowing you to continue your combo. This is different from regular knockdowns where opponents can tech roll or perform wake-up attacks.
Move Properties: Not all moves in 2XKO can hit OTG. Only specific attacks with “Can Hit Off the Ground” properties will work, and these vary by character. Understanding which moves have OTG capabilities is essential for mastering this technique.
Step-by-Step Launch OTG Reaction Tutorial
Let’s break down the Launch OTG Reaction process into clear, manageable steps:
Step 1: Establish the Knockdown
Before you can perform any OTG attack, you need to knock your opponent down. Common ways to set up OTG opportunities include:
- Forward + Heavy Attack: Many characters have heavy attacks that cause knockdown
- Throw Combos: Ending combos with throws often leaves opponents in a vulnerable state
- Air Combos: Juggling opponents and finishing with a downward attack
- Special Move Enders: Certain special moves naturally end in knockdown states
For Vi specifically, her Forward + Heavy attack is an excellent way to start the OTG sequence, as it creates the perfect knockdown setup.
Step 2: Identify the OTG Window
The most crucial aspect of Launch OTG Reaction is timing. You need to execute your OTG attack during this specific window:
- Visual Cue: Watch for your opponent to hit the ground completely
- Audio Cue: Listen for the impact sound when they land
- Timing Reference: You typically have about 10-15 frames (roughly 1/6 to 1/4 of a second) to execute the OTG attack
- Danger Zone: If you see your opponent start their wake-up animation (usually a brief yellow flash or rising motion), you’ve missed the window
Step 3: Execute the OTG Attack
Once you’ve identified the correct timing window, execute your character’s OTG move. For Vi, this is:
Vi’s Launch OTG Reaction Combo:
- Forward + Heavy Attack (knocks opponent down)
- Down + Special 2 (Crater Maker – hits OTG and launches back up)
The key is to execute the Down + Special 2 input immediately after the Forward + Heavy connects, while your opponent is still in that vulnerable downed state.
Step 4: Follow-up and Combo Extension
After successfully landing the OTG attack, your opponent will be launched back into the air, giving you another opportunity to extend your combo. Common follow-ups include:
- Air Combos: Jump and continue the juggle
- Special Move Enders: Use meter for enhanced damage
- Tag Combos: Switch to your partner for extended damage
- Setups: End in favorable positioning for continued pressure
Vi’s Crater Maker: The Perfect Launch OTG Example
Vi’s Crater Maker is arguably the most famous and accessible Launch OTG Reaction move in 2XKO, making it the perfect example for learning this technique. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this essential move.
Crater Maker Move Details
From the official 2XKO champion information, here are the specifics of Vi’s Crater Maker:
Basic Crater Maker:
- Input: Down + Special 2
- Property: Can Hit Off the Ground (OTG)
- Function: Ground pound attack that hits downed opponents
Air Crater Maker:
- Input: Down + Special 2 (in air)
- Property: Air Only, Can Hit Off the Ground
- Function: Aerial version that can also hit OTG
Hyper Crater Maker:
- Input: Quarter Circle Forward + Attack (requires meter)
- Property: Can Hit Off the Ground
- Function: Enhanced version with greater damage and combo potential
Crater Maker Assist:
- Property: Can Hit Off the Ground
- Function: Can be called as an assist for OTG combinations
Why Crater Maker is Perfect for Learning Launch OTG?
Vi’s Crater Maker exemplifies several key aspects that make it ideal for learning Launch OTG Reactions:
Clear Visual Feedback: When Crater Maker connects OTG, the visual effect is unmistakable – your opponent visibly launches from the ground back into the air, making it easy to recognize successful execution.
Forgiving Timing: Compared to other OTG moves, Crater Maker has a relatively generous timing window, making it more forgiving for beginners who are still developing their timing sense.
Versatile Applications: Crater Maker works in multiple scenarios – after heavy attacks, following throws, as an assist, and even in air-to-ground situations, giving you plenty of opportunities to practice.
Combo Starter Properties: When Crater Maker connects OTG, it creates ideal launch angles for follow-up combos, making it a practical and effective tool rather than just a training exercise.
Advanced Crater Maker Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basic Launch OTG Reaction with Crater Maker, you can explore these advanced applications:
Assist Setups: Call Crater Maker as an assist while your point character applies pressure, creating unexpected OTG opportunities that your opponent won’t see coming.
Cross-up Applications: Use Crater Maker in situations where your opponent might expect a different attack, creating mix-up opportunities that lead to big damage.
Meter Management: Learn when to use the basic version versus saving meter for Hyper Crater Maker, which offers significantly more damage and combo potential.
Team Synergy: Combine Crater Maker with other characters’ assists to create devastating OTG combinations that can turn the tide of entire matches.
2026 Advanced Launch OTG Reaction Strategies
Character-Specific OTG Options
While Vi’s Crater Maker is the most well-known Launch OTG Reaction move, other characters in 2XKO also have OTG capabilities. Understanding these options is crucial for mastering the game:
Jinx: Several of her special moves can hit OTG, particularly her explosive-based attacks that create splash damage on the ground.
Yasuo: His downward strike attacks can connect OTG, setting up for his signature tornado follow-ups.
Darius: His axe-based attacks have OTG properties, especially his downward swing specials.
Ekko: Time-manipulation moves can create unique OTG opportunities, particularly his delayed explosion attacks.
Ahri: Orb-based attacks can hit OTG, though they require precise positioning and timing.
Team Composition for OTG Mastery
Building a team around Launch OTG Reaction potential can significantly improve your performance in 2XKO:
Primary OTG Character: Choose one character with strong OTG capabilities (like Vi) as your primary damage dealer.
Support Character: Select a character whose assists complement your OTG game – either by setting up knockdowns or extending OTG combos.
Fuse Strategy: Consider how different fuses affect your OTG potential – some fuses may enhance OTG damage while others may provide additional setup options.
Meter Management: Plan your super meter usage around OTG opportunities, as many enhanced OTG moves require meter investment.
Common Launch OTG Reaction Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players can struggle with Launch OTG Reactions. Here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them:
Timing Issues: The most frequent problem is executing OTG attacks too early or too late. Solution: Practice in training mode with visual cues enabled to develop muscle memory for the correct timing window.
Wrong Move Selection: Using moves that don’t have OTG properties. Solution: Study your character’s move list and specifically look for “Can Hit Off the Ground” properties.
Poor Positioning: Being too far or too close for the OTG attack to connect. Solution: Practice spacing in training mode to understand the optimal range for your OTG moves.
Overcommitment: Using unsafe OTG moves that leave you vulnerable if blocked or whiffed. Solution: Learn which OTG moves are safe and which are risky, and use them accordingly.
Missing Follow-ups: Successfully landing the OTG but failing to capitalize with proper combo extensions. Solution: Practice complete OTG combos from start to finish in training mode.
Training Mode Drills for Launch OTG Reaction Mastery
Beginner Drills
If you’re new to Launch OTG Reactions, start with these fundamental drills:
Basic Timing Drill: Set the training dummy to “Knockdown” recovery and practice executing OTG attacks at different timings. Start with slow execution and gradually increase speed.
Visual Recognition Drill: Turn on hitboxes and visual effects in training mode. Practice identifying the exact moment when OTG attacks become possible based on visual cues.
Character Familiarization Drill: Spend time with each character on your team, practicing their specific OTG moves and understanding their unique properties.
Combo Integration Drill: Practice simple two-hit combos ending in OTG attacks. For example: Light → Medium → Heavy → OTG Special.
Intermediate Drills
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, move on to these more complex drills:
Variable Timing Drill: Have the training dummy use different recovery options (neutral rise, roll, wake-up attack) and practice adapting your OTG timing accordingly.
Pressure Drill: Practice applying block pressure, then transitioning into OTG opportunities when your opponent makes a mistake.
Assist Integration Drill: Practice calling assists during your OTG sequences to understand team synergy and meter management.
Defensive Drill: Practice defending against common OTG setups to understand your opponent’s perspective and develop counter-strategies.
Advanced Drills
For players looking to master Launch OTG Reactions at a competitive level:
Match Simulation Drill: Set up realistic match scenarios in training mode, including meter management, health considerations, and positional awareness.
Character Matchup Drill: Practice OTG techniques against different character types to understand matchup-specific nuances.
Tournament Pressure Drill: Use training mode’s recording function to simulate tournament-level pressure and decision-making.
Innovation Drill: Experiment with new OTG combinations and setups that aren’t commonly used, developing your own unique playstyle.
2026 Launch OTG Reaction in Competitive Play
Tournament-Level Applications
Launch OTG Reactions separate good players from great ones in competitive 2XKO play. Here’s how top players utilize this technique:
Momentum Building: Successful OTG sequences create psychological momentum, making opponents more hesitant to engage, which opens up additional offensive opportunities.
Resource Advantage: Extended OTG combos generate significantly more super meter and break meter than basic combos, giving you a resource advantage over the course of a match.
Match Control: Players who master OTG techniques can control the pace and flow of entire matches, forcing opponents to play defensively while they build momentum.
Comeback Potential: When behind in a match, well-executed OTG combos can provide the damage needed to mount comebacks, especially when combined with super meter usage.
Adaptability: Top players can adapt their OTG strategies based on matchup knowledge, opponent tendencies, and match situation, making their offense unpredictable and effective.
Analyzing Professional OTG Play
Watching professional 2XKO players reveals several key insights about Launch OTG Reaction usage:
Consistency Over Flash: The most successful players prioritize consistent, reliable OTG combinations over flashy but risky alternatives. They understand that guaranteed damage is better than potential high damage.
Situational Awareness: Pro players constantly assess the match situation before committing to OTG sequences, considering factors like health, meter, positioning, and character availability.
Mental Stack Management: Top players maintain awareness of multiple factors during OTG sequences – timing, positioning, meter, opponent options, and follow-up possibilities – all while executing precise inputs.
Adaptive Timing: Professional players adjust their OTG timing based on opponent behavior, using different delays and speeds to counter defensive options.
Team Coordination: In team play, coordinated OTG sequences can be devastating, with players setting up opportunities for each other through assist calls and tag combinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Launch OTG Reaction
What does OTG stand for in 2XKO?
OTG stands for “On The Ground,” referring to attacks that can hit opponents while they’re in a downed state on the ground before they begin their wake-up animation.
Can all characters perform Launch OTG Reactions in 2XKO?
No, not all characters have moves with OTG properties. Each character has specific moves that can hit off the ground, and you need to check your character’s move list for “Can Hit Off the Ground” properties.
What’s the difference between Launch OTG Reaction and regular OTG?
Launch OTG Reaction specifically refers to OTG attacks that launch the opponent back into the air for extended combos, while regular OTG attacks might just hit the opponent on the ground without launching them.
How do I know if I’m timing my OTG attack correctly?
The best way to practice timing is in training mode with visual effects enabled. You’ll know you’ve timed it correctly when your OTG attack connects and launches the opponent back into the air. If your attack whiffs or the opponent blocks it, your timing was off.
Are Launch OTG Reactions necessary for competitive play in 2XKO?
While not absolutely necessary, mastering Launch OTG Reactions is crucial for competitive success in 2XKO. They significantly increase your damage output, resource generation, and overall offensive capabilities.
Can I perform Launch OTG Reactions with assists?
Yes, many characters have assist versions of their OTG moves, allowing you to create powerful team combinations and setup opportunities.
What’s the best character for learning Launch OTG Reactions?
Vi is widely considered the best character for learning Launch OTG Reactions due to her straightforward Crater Maker move, which has clear visual feedback and forgiving timing.
How do I counter Launch OTG Reactions when I’m the one being attacked?
Defensive options against OTG include using invincible wake-up attacks, proper tech rolling, and understanding when to use defensive meter options like Break.
Do Launch OTG Reactions work differently in different game modes?
The core mechanics remain consistent across game modes, but certain modes may have specific rules or modifiers that affect OTG properties or timing.
Can I use Launch OTG Reactions in aerial combos?
Yes, some characters have aerial OTG moves that can hit opponents who are falling or have been knocked down in the air, creating unique combo opportunities.
Conclusion: Mastering Launch OTG Reaction in 2XKO
Launch OTG Reaction is more than just a flashy technique – it’s a fundamental skill that separates average players from exceptional ones in 2XKO. By mastering this mechanic, you’re not just learning how to extend combos; you’re developing a deeper understanding of the game’s timing systems, character matchups, and strategic depth.
Remember that mastery comes with consistent practice. Start with the basics, use Vi’s Crater Maker as your learning tool, and gradually expand your knowledge to include other characters and advanced techniques. The training mode is your best friend – spend time there developing muscle memory and understanding the nuances of timing.
As you continue your 2XKO journey, you’ll find that Launch OTG Reactions open up new possibilities for creativity and expression in your playstyle. Whether you’re a casual player looking to improve or an aspiring competitor aiming for the top, mastering this technique will significantly enhance your performance and enjoyment of the game.
Keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly, have fun mastering one of 2XKO’s most essential mechanics. The road to Launch OTG Reaction mastery is challenging but incredibly rewarding.
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Pro Tip: Bookmark this guide and return to it as you progress in your 2XKO journey. Launch OTG Reaction techniques evolve as the game’s meta develops, and we’ll keep this guide updated with the latest strategies and discoveries!
