Let’s be honest here, anytime Electronic Arts puts out something, it is safe to say that it will likely fall into a safe sequel territory or another sports game with a new yearly update. However, as It Takes Two demonstrated, EA is not afraid of experiments as well. Knowing that, the open beta for Knockout City was a pleasant surprise, to say the least.
Velan Studios’ offering of an online multiplayer game focusing on competitive dodgeball has plenty going for it. Despite the seemingly straightforward premise, the development team has managed to put some significant depth into it. To give you more of an understanding, here are 4 reasons why you should not dodge Knockout City this coming May 21.
Gameplay With Depth
In the high-stakes arenas of the dodgebrawl experience, you need everything to line up perfectly in order to score a victory. Thankfully, the controls and strategic play in Knockout City are exactly how you would want them. Be it a team fight or a solo battle, this game is more than just about making moves and knocking your opponents out.
Sure, there is auto-aiming involved, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. If you managed to catch a ball thrown at you, you can return it with higher speed. It can go back and forth until it becomes impossible to catch a return. Rallies like this have been a highlight in the open beta, and it should be the same in the full release. Ball feints can also throw off your opponents, opening up a window of attack.
If you rather not take the chance, you can also dodge away from the ball, or dodge towards it to reflect it off. However, you can also keep your opponents off the offensive by tackling them, making them drop the ball. Add in lobs and curved shots, together with different balls, and you get the idea.
Although Knockout City has simple controls, mastering them gives you more to enjoy about this game. There is certainly room for a very competitive scene.
