Knockout
Show HN: Knockout -A multiplayer 3D browser game built with Three.js
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What is Knockout?
Knockout is a free browser-based party royale multiplayer game where up to 10 players compete in a series of elimination rounds to become the last player standing. The game was developed for Vibejam 3 and runs entirely in your web browser using Three.js, requiring no downloads or installations. Players join through a simple lobby system where they can enter their name, choose a fighter (starting with Demon), and either quick play or create/join private rooms with invite codes.
The game features three distinct rounds: Arrow duels in hot air balloons where players shoot at each other, a glass bridge challenge inspired by Squid Game where players must cross safely, and a falling hex floor obstacle course where the floor gradually disappears. Each round eliminates players until only winners remain. The game includes full multiplayer matchmaking with a 60-second timer before matches start, and automatically fills empty slots with bots when there aren't enough real players.
Knockout is designed for casual multiplayer fun with friends or strangers online. The controls use WASD for movement, SPACE to rise, SHIFT to descend, mouse to shoot, and R to reload. The game supports both competitive play with real players and solo practice with bots, making it accessible for any skill level. Players can take screenshots when eliminated and spectate survivors until the match ends.
Knockout pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
Completely free to play - no paid tiers, subscriptions, or in-game purchases. The game is hosted on fly.dev as a free browser-based experience with no monetization. All features including multiplayer matchmaking, private rooms, bot support, and all game modes are accessible without any payment.
Knockout pros
- Completely free to play with no purchase required
- No download or installation needed - plays in browser
- Supports up to 10 players in multiplayer matches
- Includes bot support when not enough real players available
- Three diverse game modes: arrow duels, glass bridge, falling hex floor
- Simple keyboard controls easy to learn
- Private room feature with invite codes for friends
- Quick play matchmaking for instant games
- Three.js graphics run smoothly in modern browsers
- Screenshot feature to capture earned moments
- Spectator mode to watch survivors after elimination
- 60-second countdown gives time for players to join
- 11 fighter characters available to choose from
- Works on both desktop and mobile browsers
- Fast-paced elimination gameplay keeps matches exciting
Knockout cons
- Limited to only 10 players maximum per match
- Currently only 3 game rounds available
- Requires stable internet connection for multiplayer
- Browser-based may have performance limitations vs native games
- Only Demon fighter shown in lobby (others may be locked)
- No cross-platform voice chat for team communication
- Bot AI may not provide challenging practice
- No persistent progression or unlockable content visible
Frequently asked questions about Knockout
How do I join a game?
Enter your player name in the text field, choose a fighter from the selection menu, then click Quick Play to join matchmaking or Create Private Room to host a game for friends. The match starts when the timer ends with a minimum of 2 players.
What happens if there aren't enough players?
The game automatically fills empty slots with bots so you can still play. You can also click Start With Bots to intentionally play against AI opponents instead of waiting for real players.
How do I create a private room for friends?
Click Create Private Room in the lobby to generate a unique room code. Share this code or the invite link with friends, who can then enter the code in the Join section to connect to your room.
What are the controls?
WASD keys move your character, SPACE rises you up, SHIFT descends you down, mouse click shoots, and R reloads. Press ESC anytime to release the cursor from the game window.
What game modes are included?
Three rounds: Arrow duels in hot air balloons where you shoot opponents, a Glass Bridge challenge inspired by Squid Game requiring careful crossing, and a Falling Hex floor where the ground disappears and you must avoid falling.
Can I play alone?
Yes, you can play with bots if there aren't enough real players in matchmaking, or use the Start With Bots button to intentionally play against AI opponents for practice or solo fun.
How many players can compete?
Up to 10 players can compete in each match, with the game starting once at least 2 players have joined. The timer counts down from 60 seconds waiting for more players to join.
What fighters are available?
The game features 11 fighter characters to choose from. Demon is currently available, and you can switch between fighters in the lobby before the match starts using the Switch button.
Do I need to download anything?
No, Knockout runs entirely in your web browser using Three.js technology. Simply visit the website and start playing immediately without any downloads or installations required.
What happens when I get eliminated?
You can take a screenshot to commemorate your elimination, then return to the lobby. You'll enter spectator mode to watch the remaining survivors compete until the match concludes.