Mega Knockdown emulates core aspects of the 2D fighting game genre using a unique simultaneous turn-based, grid-based gameplay system.
Each turn, players choose a combat action and a movement action in secret. Then, both players' actions resolve simultaneously over the course of a few seconds. Players are rewarded for predicting the opponent's actions and choosing the right counterplay.
The basic actions are attacks, blocks and throws:
- Attacks can beat out other moves through superior range or speed. Some attacks also knock players down, restricting that player's movement and slowing their attacks next turn. This emulates the "wakeup game" seen in most fighting games.
- Blocking prevents damage from attacks, and usually puts the defender at an advantage next turn, or even granting a free counter-attack ("punish") against the opponent.
- Throws can break an opponent's guard, but have short range.
