Knockout City, the high-energy multiplayer dodgeball-inspired game from Velan Studios and Electronic Arts, has officially launched on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop.
Released globally on May 21, 2021, Knockout City enters the competitive gaming arena with cross-play and cross-progression support, offering seamless multiplayer experiences across all major platforms. Developed under the EA Originals banner, Knockout City was crafted by Velan Studios—a developer renowned for its focus on innovation and new play experiences.
The game reimagines the classic game of dodgeball with a focus on skill, depth, and style.
Players team up to master throwing, catching, passing, and dodging mechanics in dynamic environments, competing in fast-paced matches designed for both accessibility and advanced gameplay tactics. Karthik Bala, co-founder and CEO of Velan Studios, shared that the development team sought to expand on the simple concept of throwing and catching a ball, building in layers of skill, depth, and flair to create a unique and engaging competitive multiplayer experience.
Bala noted, "We've been obsessed with discovering new ways to play, and Knockout City is the result—it's not just dodgeball; it's a high-octane, stylish brawl." Electronic Arts' senior vice president of third-party content and development, Steve Pointon, emphasized the collaboration with Velan Studios, highlighting the studio's creativity and industry expertise.
"The work Velan Studios has done on their debut EA Originals release showcases their remarkable talent.
We're excited for players to experience the intense and innovative gameplay that sets Knockout City apart from other titles in its genre," Pointon remarked. At launch, players can access a free trial for a limited time, during which the full suite of content is unlocked—including five multiplayer maps, one interactive training environment, six different ball types, and comprehensive character customization options.
The game supports several modes, such as Street Play with five initial playlists, League Play, Private Match, and a robust ‘Street Rank Progression’ system, allowing players to earn hundreds of cosmetic rewards.
Importantly, progress made during the free trial carries over to the full game upon purchase. Knockout City is available on the Nintendo Switch for $19.99, with Velan Studios and Electronic Arts planning to support the game with seasonal content updates.
These future updates are set to introduce new maps, game modes, ball types, limited-time events, and additional customization options, ensuring ongoing engagement for the competitive multiplayer community. For Nintendo Switch owners seeking fresh, cross-platform multiplayer action, Knockout City delivers a distinctive blend of accessible mechanics and deep progression, all wrapped in a stylish, vibrant aesthetic.
The collaboration between Velan Studios and Electronic Arts signals a promising future for the title within the Nintendo Switch ecosystem and beyond.
Released globally on May 21, 2021, Knockout City enters the competitive gaming arena with cross-play and cross-progression support, offering seamless multiplayer experiences across all major platforms. Developed under the EA Originals banner, Knockout City was crafted by Velan Studios—a developer renowned for its focus on innovation and new play experiences.
The game reimagines the classic game of dodgeball with a focus on skill, depth, and style.
Players team up to master throwing, catching, passing, and dodging mechanics in dynamic environments, competing in fast-paced matches designed for both accessibility and advanced gameplay tactics. Karthik Bala, co-founder and CEO of Velan Studios, shared that the development team sought to expand on the simple concept of throwing and catching a ball, building in layers of skill, depth, and flair to create a unique and engaging competitive multiplayer experience.
Bala noted, "We've been obsessed with discovering new ways to play, and Knockout City is the result—it's not just dodgeball; it's a high-octane, stylish brawl." Electronic Arts' senior vice president of third-party content and development, Steve Pointon, emphasized the collaboration with Velan Studios, highlighting the studio's creativity and industry expertise.
"The work Velan Studios has done on their debut EA Originals release showcases their remarkable talent.
We're excited for players to experience the intense and innovative gameplay that sets Knockout City apart from other titles in its genre," Pointon remarked. At launch, players can access a free trial for a limited time, during which the full suite of content is unlocked—including five multiplayer maps, one interactive training environment, six different ball types, and comprehensive character customization options.
The game supports several modes, such as Street Play with five initial playlists, League Play, Private Match, and a robust ‘Street Rank Progression’ system, allowing players to earn hundreds of cosmetic rewards.
Importantly, progress made during the free trial carries over to the full game upon purchase. Knockout City is available on the Nintendo Switch for $19.99, with Velan Studios and Electronic Arts planning to support the game with seasonal content updates.
These future updates are set to introduce new maps, game modes, ball types, limited-time events, and additional customization options, ensuring ongoing engagement for the competitive multiplayer community. For Nintendo Switch owners seeking fresh, cross-platform multiplayer action, Knockout City delivers a distinctive blend of accessible mechanics and deep progression, all wrapped in a stylish, vibrant aesthetic.
The collaboration between Velan Studios and Electronic Arts signals a promising future for the title within the Nintendo Switch ecosystem and beyond.
