Speak gaming

Gaming vocabulary, made simple

Short, precise definitions for mechanics, genres and online culture.

177 items shown

AAAA: A large-budget production backed by a major publisher.
FFPS: A shooter viewed through the character’s eyes.
RRPG: A role-playing game built around progression, statistics and choices.
MMMO: An online game bringing many players into one persistent world.
DDLC: Downloadable content released after a game launches.
NNPC: A non-player character controlled by the game.
PPvP: A mode in which players compete directly.
PPvE: A mode in which players face the game environment.
CCross-play: The ability to play together across different platforms.
FFree-to-play: A free-access game usually funded by optional purchases.
RRoguelike: A demanding game based on repeated runs and variable levels.
MMetroidvania: An interconnected adventure where abilities unlock new paths.
SSpeedrun: Completing a game or objective as quickly as possible.
EEsport: Organised competitive video gaming.
PPing: The network response time between a device and server.
NNerf: A deliberate reduction in an element’s power.
BBuff: An increase in an element’s power or effectiveness.
HHitbox: An invisible area used to detect collisions or impacts.
BBattle royale: A last-player-or-team-standing competitive genre.
CCloud gaming: Streaming a game that runs on a remote server.
CCoop: A mode where players work toward a shared goal.
CCrafting: Creating items from resources collected in a game.
EEarly access: A playable game sold while still in development.
FFrame rate: The number of images displayed each second.
GGacha: A random reward mechanic, sometimes linked to purchases.
GGrinding: Repeating actions to gain experience, resources or rewards.
IIndie: A game produced by an independent team or studio.
LLoot: Items or resources earned through play.
MMatchmaking: A system that automatically groups online players.
MMod: A community-made modification to a game.
NNew Game Plus: A replay mode that preserves part of previous progress.
OOpen world: A large environment offering freedom of exploration.
PPatch: An update that fixes or changes a game.
PPermadeath: A mechanic where character death is permanent.
SSandbox: An open system designed for free experimentation.
SSeason pass: A bundle of future content sold for a game cycle.
SSoulslike: A demanding action-RPG subgenre built on observation and risk.
SStreaming: Broadcasting gameplay live or on demand online.
UUI: The visible menus, indicators and controls.
XXP: Experience points used to measure progression.
CCross-save: Using the same save or progression across supported platforms, usually through a linked account.
HHDR: High dynamic range: a wider range of brightness and colour when the game, system and display support it.
VVRR: Variable refresh rate: the display adapts its timing to incoming frames to reduce tearing and some stutter.
JJitter: Variation in network delay from one packet to another, which can make online action feel uneven.
NNAT: Network address translation: a way for devices to share an internet connection that can affect some game invitations.
UUpscaling: Producing a higher-resolution output from a lower-resolution rendered image; quality depends on the method.
FFrame generation: Adding calculated frames between normally rendered frames; it does not by itself shorten input delay.
DDRM-free: A copy distributed without built-in digital rights management; licence terms still apply.
CControl remapping: Changing which action a button, key or movement performs to suit a player or device.
DDescriptive captions: Captions that include useful sounds and speaker information as well as dialogue.
SStandard edition: Base version of a game; check the exact contents.
DDeluxe edition: A version with extras that vary by product.
CComplete edition: A bundle that may exclude later additions.
BBase game: Main product required for some expansions.
CCosmetic content: Item that mainly changes appearance.
SStick drift: Movement detected while a controller stick rests.
RRefurbished console: Used console checked before professional resale.
PPlayable demo: Limited part of a game offered for testing.
FFactory reset: Return to initial settings that removes local data.
DDigital licence: Access right governed by account and platform terms.
RRequired download: Online data needed even with a physical product.
AAssist mode: Settings that adjust pace, readability or controls.
TTutorial: Guided introduction to controls and rules.
BBattle pass: A time-limited progression track that unlocks rewards through play, sometimes with a paid tier.
CCheckpoint: A point from which play can resume after a failure or interruption.
CCooldown: The waiting time before an ability or action can be used again.
HHUD: The on-screen information shown during play, such as health, objectives or ammunition.
IInput lag: The delay between a control action and its visible effect on screen.
RRay tracing: A rendering method that simulates the paths of light for effects such as reflections and shadows.
RRemake: A new production that recreates an earlier game, often with changed technology or design.
RRemaster: An updated version that mainly improves the presentation of an existing game.
RRespawn: A character returning to play after being defeated, usually at a defined point.
RRNG: Random number generation used to determine outcomes such as rewards or encounters.
VV-sync: A display setting that synchronises frames with the screen refresh to reduce tearing.
AAccessibility: Options and design choices that make a game easier to use for people with different needs.
AAnti-aliasing: A visual technique that smooths jagged edges in rendered images.
FFOV: Field of view: the extent of the game world visible at once.
LLAN: A local network that connects nearby devices, sometimes for multiplayer play.
MMicrotransaction: A small purchase made inside a game for content, currency or other benefits.
DDRM: Technical controls used to manage access to a digital copy under its licence.
GGame engine: A set of software tools and systems used to build and run games.
RRefresh rate: The number of times a display can update its image each second.
SStutter: A brief interruption in smooth motion, often caused by irregular frame delivery.
TTwo-factor authentication: Account protection that requires a second proof of identity in addition to a password.
PPhishing: A fraudulent message or page designed to steal account information.
PParental controls: Account or device settings that limit purchases, communication, content or play time.
PPEGI: A European age-rating system that describes the suitability of game content.
CCross-progression: Progress that can continue across supported devices or platforms through a linked account.
LLocal co-op: Cooperative play by people sharing the same physical space or device.
CCloud save: A game save stored online for recovery or use on supported devices.
PPacket loss: Network data failing to reach its destination, which can disrupt online play.
MMotion blur: A visual effect that blurs movement between frames, with comfort varying by player.
AAggro: The attention of an enemy controlled by the game, often directed at the character it attacks.
BBacktracking: Returning to an area already visited, sometimes with a new ability that opens another path.
BBoss: A particularly important opponent that often tests skills learned earlier.
BBuild: A chosen combination of abilities, equipment and statistics for a character.
CCombo: A sequence of actions or attacks linked together under the game’s rules.
DDPS: Damage per second, used to compare how quickly attacks reduce a target’s health.
QQTE: Quick time event: a timed button prompt that must be answered during a scene.
EEndgame: Activities and progression available after a main objective or campaign is completed.
EEaster egg: A hidden reference, joke or secret placed in a game by its creators.
FFriendly fire: A rule allowing an attack to harm teammates as well as opponents.
LLore: The history, beliefs and background information that give a game world context.
PProcedural generation: Creating parts of a game from rules and parameters rather than placing every element by hand.
QQuest: A defined task offered by a game, usually with an objective and a result or reward.
SSkill tree: A map of abilities that a player can unlock as a character progresses.
AAFK: Away from keyboard: a player is temporarily absent or inactive.
AAoE: Area of effect: an action that affects a zone rather than a single target.
BBeta: A pre-release version used to test a game or service; its features may change.
BBot: A software-controlled participant, sometimes used to fill a match or practise.
CCrowd control: Effects that restrict an opponent’s movement or ability to act.
DDialogue tree: A branching structure of conversation choices and responses.
EEmulator: Software that reproduces aspects of another system so compatible programs can run.
HHealer: A character role focused on restoring allies’ health or preventing damage.
IInventory: The interface or system that stores and manages a character’s items.
FFrame pacing: The regularity of time between displayed frames, which affects perceived smoothness.
AAim assist: Assistance that adjusts aiming; its strength depends on game and input device.
SShader compilation: Preparation of graphics programs for a device; it can cause loading or stutter.
AAvatar: Character or representation used to identify a player within a game.
DDynamic difficulty: System that adjusts challenge according to play; not necessarily a manual difficulty setting.
HHaptic feedback: Tactile response from a controller or device, conveying actions through vibration or force.
LLive service game: Game maintained with ongoing updates, events or content; this does not specify its price model.
MMinimap: Compact map showing nearby locations or objectives; information varies by game.
TTank: Role designed to absorb pressure or protect teammates, depending on game rules.
AAction-RPG: Role-playing game combining character progression with action-based combat.
CCamping: Staying in a strategic spot to wait for opponents; meaning depends on context.
CClipping: Visual overlap where a model appears to pass through another surface.
DDamage sponge: Informal description of an opponent requiring many hits to defeat.
FFetch quest: Task focused on collecting or delivering objects, sometimes across several locations.
GGhosting: Visible trails behind moving objects; the cause depends on display or rendering technique.
GGlass cannon: Character with high offensive power but limited ability to survive damage.
LLocal dimming: Display backlight adjustment by zone; effectiveness depends on the actual panel.
11% low: A statistic summarising the slowest portion of frame-rate measurements; methodology must be stated.
TTelemetry: Collection of technical or usage measurements; review the service’s privacy settings.
EESRB: North American rating system describing age suitability, content and interactive elements.
RRollback netcode: Network technique that predicts actions and corrects simulation when remote inputs arrive.
DDedicated server: Machine or process assigned to host a game session rather than a player’s client.
PPeer-to-peer: Network organisation where participants exchange data directly; implementations vary.
RRegion lock: Restriction of access or compatibility according to a region defined by the service.
LLevel scaling: Adjustment of enemies or content to character progression under game-specific rules.
MMacro: Sequence of commands triggered by one action; competitive rules may restrict its use.
MMana: Resource consumed by certain abilities, often spells; recovery rules depend on the game.
MMelee: Combat or attacks performed at close range rather than with distant projectiles.
MMeta: Strategies considered effective in the current rules and community; not a permanent ranking.
MMMR: Matchmaking rating used to estimate player skill; it may differ from a visible rank.
AAsymmetric multiplayer: Multiplayer where participants have different roles, capabilities or objectives.
NNo-hit: Challenge completed without receiving qualifying hits; the exact rules must be specified.
OOverclocking: Operating a component above its standard clock settings; stability and thermal effects vary.
PParty: Group of players or characters organised to play together.
PPhoto mode: Feature for framing images using camera or visual controls; tools vary by game.
PPixel art: Visual style built from deliberately arranged pixels; not necessarily old hardware.
PPort: Adaptation of a game to another platform; changes and compatibility depend on the release.
RRaid: Group activity with coordinated objectives, often more demanding than a standard encounter.
CCross-buy: Purchase entitlement covering specified platforms; not the same as cross-save.
BBackward compatibility: Ability to use software or accessories from an earlier system, with possible exceptions.
AAutosave: Automatic progress recording; frequency and overwrite behaviour depend on the game.
SSave slot: Separate location for a saved state; availability and contents vary by game.
SSoftlock: State where progress is impossible although the program still runs.
HHardlock: Complete freeze preventing normal interaction and usually requiring a restart.
NNative resolution: Image rendered at the target output resolution without spatial upscaling.
DDynamic resolution: Rendering resolution adjusted during play to meet a performance target.
SScreen tearing: Visible split when parts of different frames appear during one screen refresh.
TTAA: Temporal anti-aliasing that uses information from previous frames; image artefacts may occur.
OOLED: Display technology with self-emitting pixels; behaviour depends on the panel and use.
SShader cache: Stored results used to avoid repeating some graphics preparation work.
TTexture streaming: Loading texture data as needed rather than keeping all detail resident.
CColourblind mode: Display adjustments for colour distinctions; available palettes and effects vary.
VVR motion sickness: Discomfort that can occur during virtual reality; stop the session when symptoms appear.
SSingle-use code: Activation code that normally cannot be reused after redemption on an account.
PPasskey: A cryptographic sign-in credential used instead of typing a password where supported. Storage and recovery depend on the device and provider; prepare a backup way to access the account.
RRecovery code: A backup code for regaining account access when the usual two-factor method is unavailable. Keep it outside the affected account and never share it in a chat or screenshot.
SStatus page: A page showing the condition of online services and sometimes previous incidents. Check which components and regions it covers and its update time; it may not cover every game's servers.
MMaintenance: Planned or exceptional work on a service that may temporarily limit access. Check the scope and time zone; the expected return time can change.
DDelisting: Removal of a product from a store's sales catalogue. This alone does not establish whether existing owners can download or launch it; check those functions separately.
SService shutdown: The end of functions provided by a remote service. It may affect multiplayer, a store or the entire game; the official announcement should identify modes, platforms and dates.
GGame-key card: A Nintendo Switch 2 physical card used as the key to download and run a game. It does not contain all game data; the first download needs internet and storage, and the card must be inserted to play.
mmicroSD Express: A memory card format with a faster interface than conventional microSD. Downloaded Nintendo Switch 2 games require an Express card for expandable storage; an ordinary older microSD card cannot serve that role.