Wallbanging

Wallbanging is a term used in some video games, particularly first-person shooters, to describe the act of shooting at an enemy through a wall or other obstacle. This is often possible due to game mechanics that allow bullets to penetrate certain surfaces, even if the shooter cannot directly see the target.

The effectiveness of wallbanging depends on the game's physics engine and the type of material being shot through. Some games feature designated "bulletproof" materials that completely stop projectiles, while others allow for varying degrees of penetration based on weapon type and material thickness. Players often learn which surfaces are vulnerable through experimentation or by observing other players.

Wallbanging can be a controversial tactic. Some players view it as a legitimate strategy that rewards game knowledge and precision, while others consider it unfair or "cheap," arguing that it bypasses the traditional element of aiming directly at a visible opponent. Game developers sometimes adjust penetration mechanics to balance the effectiveness of wallbanging, either by increasing or decreasing the penetrability of certain materials or by adding visual cues to indicate when a wall can be shot through. The term is also sometimes used colloquially to refer to any loud or disruptive noise made by hitting a wall.