Deregain

Deregain is a term primarily associated with the *Final Fantasy* series, particularly *Final Fantasy VII*, and refers to a process of restoring or reviving a character after they have been defeated in battle. The concept was introduced as part of the game's unique combat mechanics, which allowed players to temporarily revive fallen allies under certain conditions.

In *Final Fantasy VII*, players could use the "Deregain" command during combat to revive a fallen ally if they had a specific item called a "Deregain Potion" or if they had a character with the "Deregain" ability. This ability was often tied to the character Cloud Strife, who could use it as a skill. The revival was temporary, lasting only until the next turn, and required the player to have a spare action slot to cast the spell or use the item. This mechanic added strategic depth to battles, as players had to balance between healing and reviving allies while managing their limited resources.

The term "Deregain" itself is a portmanteau of "de-" (indicating reversal or removal) and "retain," suggesting the act of temporarily restoring a fallen character to the battlefield. While the concept was unique to *Final Fantasy VII*, it influenced later games in the series and other RPGs, though it was not widely adopted as a standard feature.

Beyond gaming, "Deregain" has occasionally been referenced in discussions about game mechanics, combat strategies, and the legacy of *Final Fantasy VII*. Its simplicity and effectiveness made it a memorable aspect of the game’s design, contributing to its enduring popularity among fans.