About This Format
Knockout (also known as Strikes) is an elimination-style format where players compete in groups and accumulate strikes based on their finishing position. Once a player reaches the maximum number of strikes, they are eliminated. The last player standing wins.
How It Works
Each round, players are placed into groups (typically 3 or 4 players) and play a game. The lowest-finishing player(s) in each group receive one or more strikes. When a player accumulates the configured number of strikes (commonly 3), they are eliminated from the tournament. Rounds continue with remaining players until only one player is left.
Variants
Standard Knockout: The last-place finisher in each group receives a strike. This is the simplest form.
Fair Knockout: Designed to address the issue where some players may face tougher opponents by luck of the draw. Fair Knockout uses a more balanced pairing algorithm to ensure players face opponents of similar skill level throughout the tournament.
Progressive Knockout: The number of strikes awarded increases as the tournament progresses. Early rounds may award just 1 strike to the last-place finisher, while later rounds might award strikes to multiple finishing positions or award 2 strikes for last place. This accelerates the elimination pace as the field shrinks.
Strategy
Unlike bracket formats where a single loss can end your tournament, Knockout gives players a buffer — you need to finish last multiple times before you're out. This makes it more forgiving for casual players while still rewarding consistent performers. However, as the field shrinks, each round becomes increasingly intense as the remaining players are all strong competitors.
TGP Calculation
Due to the variable nature of Knockout tournaments (different player counts, strike limits, and group sizes create vastly different meaningful game counts), TGP must be calculated using an external simulator tool. The result can vary slightly between simulation runs.