Game Glossary
The words, decoded
A growing dictionary of the slang, mechanics, and inside jokes kids drop mid-sentence. Look one up, then go ask about it.
Want the full story behind a game instead? Browse the Game Guides.
- 💃 Animation Cancelling
- Learn about animation cancelling in gaming! It's when players stop a character's action to quickly perform another, crucial in games like Fortnite for speed. Engage with your child about this strategy to appreciate their gaming skills!
- 💎 BoA
- Definition: BoA stands for “Bind on Account," a term used in games like World of Warcraft. Think of it like a family keepsake — an item
- 💞 Matchmaking
- Dive into the world of gaming matchmaking, where skill levels meet fairness. Discover why your kid might complain about mismatches and how you can engage in their gaming experiences. Learn ways to ask about their experiences and boost their problem-solving skills!
- 💥 AoE
- Definition: AoE stands for "Area of Effect," a term used in video games to describe abilities or attacks that cover a certain area, rather
- 💥 Critical Hit
- Discover the excitement of landing a critical hit in games! A surprise attack that deals massive damage, bringing thrills to games like Fortnite and Minecraft. Engage with your kids by acknowledging their skill and luck in these gaming moments.
- 💪 Buff
- Definition: In the gaming world, a 'buff' is an enhancement or upgrade that makes a video game character stronger or more powerful. Think of
- 💾 32-bit
- Learn why kids love 32-bit games, a blend of nostalgia and unique style! Discover how these retro classics like the PlayStation 1 and Sega Genesis still capture hearts, and how modern games sometimes embrace this vintage charm.
- 🔄 Emulator
- Discover the magic of emulators: digital time machines that let your kids play classic games from decades ago. Learn about their benefits and the safety tips you should know.
- 🔄 Respawn
- When a character 'dies' in a game, they usually come right back. That's a respawn—and it's a surprisingly handy idea to talk through with kids.
- 🔧 Patch
- Discover why game patches are essential for keeping games fun and balanced. Learn how to start engaging conversations with your kids when they talk about game updates.
- 🔻 Debuff
- Discover what 'debuff' means in gaming, and how understanding it can reveal the tactical aspects of your child's gameplay in games like Fortnite or Roblox.
- 🕹️ 8-bit
- Dive into the world of 8-bit games, a nostalgic style popular in the 80s, with simple graphics and mechanics. Perfect for a gaming history lesson!