HitPoint

HitPoint, commonly abbreviated as HP, is a measure of a character's health in many games and simulations. It indicates how much damage a character can endure before becoming incapacitated or dead.

In most systems, HitPoints form a finite pool with a defined maximum. When damage is taken, current HP decreases; healing increases it up to the maximum. Some rules also introduce temporary HitPoints that act as a buffer, or shields that absorb damage before it reduces real HP.

HP is typically displayed as a numeric value and/or a health bar. The maximum HP often scales with character progression, such as level, class features, or equipment. Healing methods vary, including potions, spells, resting, or automatic regeneration.

Different genres implement HitPoint mechanics in distinct ways. In tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, HP represents vitality and directly determines when a character is knocked unconscious or dies. In many video games, HP is paired with armor or shields and may be recovered through quick actions or long-term strategies. Some games separate HP from other resources like stamina or mana.

Because HP affects combat dynamics and survival, it is a foundational element in game design, influencing difficulty, pacing, and player decision-making.