Gank

Gank refers to a surprise attack, commonly used in multiplayer online games. The term originated in the gaming community and describes a tactic where a player or a group of players ambushes an unsuspecting opponent, often with superior numbers or advantages, to quickly defeat them. This surprise element is key to a successful gank, aiming to catch the target off guard before they can react or escape.

The strategy of ganking is prevalent in various game genres, particularly those involving player versus player combat, such as Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) and Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs). Ganking can occur in different contexts within a game, including open-world environments, specific quest areas, or objective-based game modes. It is often employed to gain an advantage, such as eliminating a rival player, stealing resources, or disrupting an opponent's progress.

Players who engage in ganking are sometimes referred to as gankers. The effectiveness of a gank depends on factors like coordination, timing, character abilities, and knowledge of the game's mechanics and map. While considered a legitimate tactic by many, ganking can also be perceived as unsportsmanlike or frustrating by those who are targeted, especially if it feels unfair or exploitative. The balance between allowing such tactics and protecting players from excessive harassment is a common consideration in game design.