Mega Knockdown

Gameplay

Mega Knockdown emulates aspects of 2D fighting games using a unique simultaneous turn-based system. Movement is fixed to a grid of ground and air spaces.

Each turn, both players select a combat action (Attack, Block, Throw) and a movement action (Forward, Back, Jump, Stand) in double-blind fashion. Then, both players' actions resolve simultaneously over the course of a few seconds. Players are rewarded for accurately predicting the opponent's actions, and choosing the right counterplay.

Attacks are the primary means of dealing damage, and cover a variety of ranges. Blocking not only prevents damage, but can also put the defender at an advantage next turn, or enable a free hit (punish) on the opponent. Throws break an opponent's guard, but have short range.

Certain combinations of combat and movement actions trigger special attacks, depending on the character.

Some attacks knock a player down, restricting a player's movement on the next turn. This emulates the fighting game concept okizeme.

Mega Knockdown was originally developed as a card game for the 2017 season of the CUDO Plays design competition.

Characters

Shotokan Artist Paul fulfills the traditional fighting game role of shoto, controlling space with a projectile and an invincible anti-air dragon punch.

Big Billy is a slow, powerful grappler who threatens huge damage at close range with his command grab. His strikes are slow but powerful and armored.

M.M. Lewis is an up-close striker who can weave in and out of range of attacks with his Bravery Step and its follow-up techniques, or get up close with his sliding attack, Slippery Slope.

Mahogany Marv is a dedicated zoner who can poke from long distance with the aid of his tree companion.

Nick Beardguy is a completely average character who has no active abilties whatsoever, but he has passive skills that boost the damage output of his basic moves.

Dr. Flatskin is a mid range character who can gain ground with her Fightning Feet special move, or plant a delayed vine with her summon move, Unusual Botanical. The vine covers a moderate distance in front of her, blocking far off projectiles and allowing combos in the corner.